5 Young Spaniards Who Could Be Newcastle's Next Ayoze Perez

Like the aforementioned Borja San Emeterio, Merino was a leading contributor during Spain Under 19's recent European Championship triumph. At the heart of La Rojita's midfield in their 4-2-3-1 formation, the Osasuna man was one half of the successful double pivot alongside Rodrigo; one which helped the team significantly in their quest to dominate possession and play the football they wanted.

Winning the Euros was the perfect end to a fine debut season in the young career of Merino. Having just recently turned 19, the Pamplona native went on to be a regular for Osasuna throughout the campaign; earning plaudits for his composure and productivity as a fresh-faced midfielder in the box of tricks that is the second tier of Spanish football.

It was a tough campaign for the northern side, and one which could have easily ended in ruin. Fortunately for them, a late goal on the final day of the season kept them up in place of Racing Santander (and Borja San Emeterio), but it's unlikely to aide Merino's stay in any sort of capacity.

The chase for his services is already well on, and may be resolved before the start of the new season. Though the talk at present is that Athletic Bilbao are hot on his trail, the market remains open. An offer similar to that Newcastle made for Ayoze Perez would certainly see Osasuna concede defeat.