Could it be Banega out and Merino in for Spanish side?

SEVILLA are on the verge of selling midfielder Ever Banega as they prepare to step up their interest in Newcastle United’s Mikel Merino. The Chronicle understands that the Spanish side are ready to make a move for Merino, who is attracting interest from several La Liga clubs after just 12 months on Tyneside. Reports suggest that Arsenal and Sevilla are holding talks over Banega, a central midfielder, who played 31 times for Sevilla last season and scored three goals as the side finished seventh. The 29-year-old is said to have a release clause of £20m and new Gunners boss Unai Emery is keen to get the deal sorted for the Argentine international, who will need a boost after his country’s dire start to the World Cup.

Any potential move to North London will see Sevilla look to fill the gap with Merino.

It is thought that Real Sociedad and Real Betis lead the way for the United midfielder but Spanish reports claim that Sevilla are ready to leapfrog their La Liga rivals to the 21-year-old’s signature.

Merino’s career on Tyneside got off to a great start but injury and then the great form of Jonjo Shelvey and Mo Diame limited his appearances in the second half of the season.

United manager Rafa Benitez would prefer to keep the midfielder but may face a struggle to do so if he cannot guarantee him first team football.