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Mikel Merino WILL be joining Newcastle United permanently in the summer.

Rafa Benitez says a transfer from Borussia Dortmund will be tied up “easily” in the close season – provided he continues to turn in the sort of displays that have lit up his early Premier League appearances.

The United midfielder’s excellent performances have been one of the most noteworthy things about the start of the season – but nervy Newcastle fans are aware of the fact he’s on a season-long loan from Borussia Dortmund.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

Having seen Loic Remy sign for Chelsea after impressing on loan at St James’ Park in 2013, those concerns are understandable – especially with Merino’s early season performances understood to have alerted Premier League scouts.

But Rafa Benitez insists there is no need to worry about the prospect of Merino’s contract situation coming to a head.

“If he’s doing well on the pitch, the contract situation will be sorted out easily. What he has to do is keep on playing well and not being over-confident. If he continues to do well, he will have all the chances to stay,” Benitez said.

United sources are staying tight-lipped about the exact terms of the loan but German reports that he needs to play 20 games are not entirely accurate. Those with knowledge of the deal believe it is a permanent transfer “in all but name” – something that Newcastle fans will be happy to hear.

But Newcastle have not banked any cash for Tim Krul, whose move to Brighton this week was made permanent. The deal was a free transfer, with Benitez insisting he had to let him leave because he had too many goalkeepers.