Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has confirmed the club are interested in bringing 19 year old Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida back to Spain. "Of course we are interested. He is one of the best young players in Europe," Cerezo told Marca.
"But just as we are thinking of it, many other teams in Europe will be thinking the same. I'm sure that he has many offers because that is what someone of his quality deserves."
Merida's representative, Joseba Diaz, insists the only team they are currently in talks with are Arsenal.
"We haven't signed anything with Atletico because, simply, the only club with whom we are negotiating is Arsenal," he told Marca.
"The absolute priority of the lad is to renew with them. I repeat: There has been no agreement with anybody.
"Only if we don't renew with Arsenal will it be the moment to talk with other clubs. There's been interest from four clubs in Spain but I've not sat down to negotiate with any of them.
"Arsenal have the priority. Moreover, as always, they are acting like gentlemen."
