Wednesday, 6th January 2010

Arsenal youngster Fran Merida looks certain to leave The Emirates and could be on the verge of signing with La Liga side Atletico Madrid. Manager Arsene Wenger has revealed a deal to extend the 19-year-old’s contract have been at a standstill and that the player is desperate to notch up more playing time, something not readily available with the Gunners.

"We made an offer for Fran Merida to remain at Arsenal, but we could never close the deal for different reasons. I have no idea if he has already signed or is close to signing for Atletico Madrid, but I fear the worst. If he has already done so, I am disappointed," Wenger said at an after training press conference. “Merida is at a stage where he wants minutes and needs to play.”

The Spanish youngster joined the North London club from the Barcelona youth system in 2005. He was once tipped to be the “next Fabregas”, but has since failed to stake his claim in the team so far.

 

 

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