Borussia Dortmund are known for bringing in some of the world’s most talented youth players. However, it appears that one young star may be on the way out.
According to reports from Sport.de, Mikel Merino could be on his way back to Spain for Liga BBVA side Athletic Bilbao. The Basque club prides itself on signing strictly Basque-born or trained players, and Merino fits the bill being from Pamplona.
The midfielder has fallen deeply out of favor after embracing his role as a versatile “utility” player in preseason. Reports from Spanish newspaper El Correo state that Merino is open to a move to Bilbao.
After purchasing Merino for €3.7 Million this summer from Osasuna, Dortmund would be looking to increase his value by selling him for €5 Million due to various clauses. With his contract running until 2021, heavy discussion of his departure is disappointing for a player of such high expectation.