Mikel Merino is hopeful his time at Newcastle United can lead to a Spain call-up.

The 21-year-old made his loan move from Borussia Dortmund permanent last year.

And the centre-midfielder will be hoping to impress when plays for his country's U21 side against Northern Ireland and Estonia.

He told the Chronicle: "The dream is to play in a World Cup or the Euros with Spain.

"That's the dream for anybody in the Under-21s or Under-18s or the categories below.

"It's the dream and the hope for me too.

"And I hope one day I am the one to be there.

"I know it's going to be really difficult because it's only the best of the best get there in the Spanish national team because it's one of the best teams in the world.

"I hope that one day that if things go well and I am at the right level I will be there.

"It would be great if that Spanish cap comes when I am a Newcastle United player.

"I know I am at a great club and Newcastle is a great place too.

"This is a great scenario to show everybody what I can do.

"If I am able to play for Newcastle and Spain at senior level that will be great."