Newcastle United brought in the talented young midfielder during the summer.
When Rafa Benitez sold Xabi Alonso during his time in charge of Liverpool, it was a decision that would never be forgiven by some Reds supporters, but years on, could the Spaniard have brought the latest incarnation of the mercurial midfielder to Newcastle United?
Magpies fans knew little about Mikel Merino when he arrived at St. James’ Park on loan from Borussia Dortmund during the last transfer window, but they certainly do now.
The 21-year-old has been an instant hit at Newcastle, controlling the play in the centre of the park with the aplomb of a player with far more experience than he has accrued so far, especially when you consider his struggle for minutes at Dortmund last season.
Merino is the real deal, a player whose close control and eye for a pass marks him out as one to watch in the years ahead.
Benitez may have had to wait patiently to get some of his preferred deals over the line during the recent transfer window, but Merino was well worth the delay, as were some of the other players Newcastle brought in over the summer.
Alonso may have left Liverpool under something of a cloud but now Benitez has the chance to ensure another Spanish pass-master remains in England for the long haul, benefiting Newcastle considerably in the process.
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