REAL BETIS are ready to rival Atletico Bilbao in the chase for Newcastle midfielder Mikel Merino, according to reports in Spain.
The midfielder, 21, played just 1,343 minutes under Rafa Benitez this term and is likely to be allowed to leave should a suitable offer arrive.
Athletic, whose purchases are limited to Basque-born players, had been heavily linked with a move for Merino in recent months.
However, AS are now claiming Betis have entered the mix — and they can offer European football.
An incredible campaign under the guide of Quique Setien saw them produce some of the most exciting games in La Liga, and they topped their campaign off with qualification for the Europa League.
They even finished above arch rivals Sevilla in sixth place and won the first meeting between the pair 5-3.
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Merino had been one of Rafa Benitez’s top targets last summer, and they signed him from Borussia Dortmund for £8million.
However, despite initial excitement, he struggled with injuries and often found himself left out of the matchday squad.
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The ex-Osasuna midfielder is currently valued at £8.7m, though Newcastle are likely to demand a higher fee.
Merino has 12 Spain Under 21 caps, scoring three goals.
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