Fabrizio Romano: Ex-Newcastle midfielder identified as Barcelona's top target

Former Mag Mikel Merino has been identified as a key summer target for Barcelona after another impressive season for Real Sociedad, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Merino played just 25 games for Newcastle before returning to his native Spain, although it was clear the midfielder had serious potential and could have become a Premier League star had he stayed.

However, things didn't really work out back then and the 27-year-old returned to his homeland, where he shone for Real Sociedad, finished the 2023/24 La Liga season in sixth position and secured a place at Euro 2024 alongside former Mags Joselu and Ayoze Perez.

Not only are Barcelona keen on his signing, but Romano also reports that Juventus are closely monitoring the former Borussia Dortmund player and could make a move if they fail to sign Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners.

🔵🔴 Mikel Merino, concrete option now on Barça's list for new midfielder @tjuanmarti reported.

Déco likes it, Merino will be one of the names considered.

↪️ Understand that he is also appreciated by Juventus but their priority target is clear: Teun Koopmeiners. 🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/THjp7WF0Jw

-Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 5, 2024

It's a shame Merino's time on Tyneside was so brief, but it's great to see the Spaniard's career thriving almost six years after his departure.