Former NUFC star linked with surprise return to St James' Park after another superb season

According to new reports, Newcastle United are showing interest in former midfielder Mikel Merino.

This comes from Spanish outlet Fichajes, who claim that we are keen to re-sign the 25-year-old after seeing him become 'one of the most important players' at Real Sociedad since he swapped St James' Park for Spain back in 2018.

The report also states that Barcelona and Liverpool are admirers of the former Borussia Dortmund maestro, believing he could be on the move this summer along with Alexander Isak; another player who has been linked with a move to Tyneside in recent months.

Speaking to The Chronicle last month, here's what Merino had to say about his time on Tyneside - admitting he does "miss those days" despite being settled at Real Sociedad:

“I felt so welcome by the fans, by my team-mates, by the atmosphere.

“The city was amazing. I was enjoying just going to the city centre and having a pint or going for a walk and enjoying the people speaking nicely to you. I was feeling great

“I look back on those times and it was a shame I could not play more games and enjoy the fans and the league a little bit more, but my mindset right now is it was a huge year for me. I learned a lot.

“I’m really sure I’m the player that I am now because of Newcastle and all the experiences that I lived there. I’m really happy that I lived that and I wish all the best for every Newcastle fan.

“The team right now are killing it so I’m really happy for them. Even now, when I watch the games and you see over 3,000 people travelling for an away game – it’s crazy! You start to remember those times when you were playing away and you felt like you were playing at St James’ Park.

“I still get goosebumps. It was a crazy year for me. I miss those days a little bit, but I’m really happy where I am right now.”