Arsenal are confident they're in the clear over Barcelona's £2.2 million claim on teenage midfielder Fran Merida.

The Daily Mail says Arsenal are facing a £2.2million bill for snatching Merida away from Barcelona's youth ranks after the Spanish club won a civil court ruling against the player yesterday.

Reports from the Nou Camp indicate that the judgement against Merida is worth up to £2.2m although it is understood Arsenal will pay the money on behalf of the 17-year-old.

Insiders at Emirates Stadium say, however, they have acted appropriately and the club are not implicated in any way.

Merida has made just one substitute appearance for the first team in the Carling Cup this season