Transfer Talk: Newcastle flop Merino on Liverpool's radar

Liverpool are considering a summer move for former Newcastle midfielder Mikel Merino.

The Reds are still looking to replace Gini Wijnaldum after he joined Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer in July.

And reports in Spain suggest Merino is one of the club’s top targets following impressive form for Real Sociedad.

Though he struggled at both Borussia Dortmund and then St James’ Park, the 25-year-old has rejuvenated his career since moving to the Basque country in 2018.

Merino has only missed nine minutes of LaLiga action this term as Imanol Alguacil's side have enjoyed a fine start to the campaign.

Victory at Osasuna today would see them return to the top of the table and Merino has been a key figure for Alguacil.

The report suggests that Merino was on Liverpool’s watchlist prior to the current term when their main target was Jude Bellingham.

But if they are unable to secure a deal with Dortmund for the English teenager, they may make a move for Merino this time around.

With the likes of Thiago Alcantara and James Milner suffering more injuries as they get older, Jurgen Klopp wants more options in the middle of the park.

The LaLiga side tied Merino down to a new four-year deal in July and put a £51million release clause in his contract.

In other news

Spanish outlet AS report that Real Madrid will insert a £850m release clause in Vinicius Jr’s new deal at the end of the current season.

Everton boss Rafael Benitez has told supporters there will be no spending spree in January despite recent struggles on the pitch.

Scottish wonderkid Kerr Smith, 16, looks set to swap Dundee United for Liverpool despite interest from Manchester United, Everton and Aston Villa, say The Sun.