Newcastle United could reportedly sell Mikel Merino this summer – so signing Jack Wilshere from Arsenal could be essential.
Rafa Benitez might have to brace himself for criticism.
The Spaniard is viewed almost as some form of managerial deity on Tyneside after guiding Newcastle United from the Championship to the top half of the Premier League but it seems he could make a decision that would ruffle some Magpies’ feathers.
Merino might have fallen down the pecking order in 2018, starting just one league game after the turn of the year, but he is arguably the biggest young talent in Newcastle’s squad and fans made clear last week that they felt Benitez would be making a big mistake letting him go.
But perhaps there is method to the madness.
As reported by the Daily Star, Newcastle are still keen on Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere. It was expected that he would sign a new deal with his contract due to expire this summer but, since Arsene Wenger was replaced by Unai Emery, the Englishman’s future has been plunged into doubt again.
Wilshere might be a free agent soon, but with wages of £110,000 a week, he wouldn’t come cheap for Newcastle. And should Benitez lure one of the most naturally gifted home-grown footballers to St James’ Park, and help him fulfil his still substantial potential, the decision to sell Merino could be overshadowed.
After all, why sell a player if you don’t have an upgrade in mind?
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