Udinese midfielder Alexander Merkel admits he has long-term Bundesliga ambitions.

The 21-year old started his career at Stuttgart before making the switch to Italy as a highly-rated 16-year old to join AC Milan.

"Back in January I had talks with various clubs, also with a few from Germany. It did not work out as I preferred to remain in Italy then," Merkel told Sport1.

"Basically I am keen on playing Bundesliga 1 football one day in the future.

"There are great teams in the league and those stadiums are always sold out."