Rafa Benitez is positive that Mikel Merino is happy at Newcastle despite the midfielder being linked with a return to Spain in the January transfer window.
Merino has been a revelation at St James’ Park following his summer switch from Borussia Dortmund – a loan move that has since been made permanent – and rumours circulated that Athletic Bilbao could make a move for the Spain under-21 international before the deadline.
It was even reported that Newcastle were negotiating the sale of the 21-year-old with the La Liga club before Benitez intervened and the United boss dismissed any suggestion that Merino would depart Tyneside for Bilbao.
“Yes, that was clear at the beginning,” The Magpies boss told the Sunderland Echo when he was asked if the Spaniard is content at Newcastle.
Merino was only used as a late substitute in the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Sunday as he continues to recover from a troublesome back injury and Benitez indicated the midfielder is slowly regaining his match sharpness.
“It’s just a case of getting back to his perfect match fitness. That’s it,” Benitez said.
“It’s taken some time. Now he must recover the match fitness by training and playing games.”
