Newcastle United forward Ayoze Perez has admitted he is disappointed to see Mikel Merino leave the club after only one season in the Premier League.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Perez explained that it was tough for him to see a great friend and a good player leave.
Perez stated: "Mikel Merino is a great friend as well as being a teammate. Outside of football we spent a lot of time together and I am sad to see him leave.
"But at the end of the day it's his decision, he has to look out for what is best for him.