Fans thrilled with Mikel Merino’s Newcastle pledge amid links to Spain

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Mikel Merino has committed his future to Newcastle United after weeks of speculation linking him with a move to La Liga.

It looked all but certain that Mikel Merino would be leaving Newcastle United this summer, but the Spaniard has put to bed rumours of a departure, and has committed his future to the Magpies, in quotes on the club’s official website.

The 21-year-old was reportedly set for a return to Spain, with both Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao courting the player closely, according to reports from AS, but it seems they were pre-emptive, as Merino has revealed his desire to stick it out and improve on Tyneside next term.

“I’ll try to improve myself, I’ll try to play more minutes, to be an important part of the team and an important player. I want to increase my offensive skills, try to make more goals, try to be more confident with ball and try to make my teammates play better.”

After weeks of speculation, Toon supporters were understandably thrilled, and took to Twitter to have their say on Merino’s revelation:

Now that his future is resolved, the Spanish play-maker can focus on honing his game and earning a first-team spot.

Upon arriving from Borussia Dortmund for £8 million, the midfielder initially impressed and gaernered comparisons to legendary midfielders such as Xabi Alonso, but come 2018, Merino fell down the pecking order under Rafa Benitez, thanks to a purple-patch of form from the long-serving Mohamed Diame and a lengthy back-injury.