Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino keen to leave for Athletic Bilbao?

Midfielder Mikel Merino has reportedly told Newcastle United that he would like to leave the club at the end of the season.

After initially moving to St James' Park on a season-long loan deal from Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle and Merino quickly agreed terms over a long-term contract.

However, according to TEAMtalk, Merino has grown increasingly unsettled on Tyneside and would like to return to Spain in the summer.

Athletic Bilbao are said to be interested in Merino's signature, and the 21-year-old would be happy to link up with the La Liga outfit.

Merino has made a total of 22 appearances in the Premier League, but has played just 180 minutes of football since January 31.