Arsenal transfer news :Arsenal risk losing Merida over new contract dithering

Arsenal face a battle to keep hold of midfielder Fran Merida.

The Daily Mail says Sevilla are the latest Primera Liga club to be linked with a move for Arsenal midfielder Merida.

Atletico Madrid have made no secret of their desire to take the teenager back to Spain but they are likely to face stiff competition in January.

Sevilla, sitting third in the table behind Barcelona and Real Madrid, were impressed by Merida's performances at the Under 20 World Cup and hope to land the 19-year-old on loan with a view to a permanent deal.

Merida is out of contract at the end of the campaign but Arsenal hope to tie him down to a long-term deal.

source tribalfootball.com

Gunners transfer news:Merida agent wants Arsenal talks

The agent of Fran Merida says Arsenal will get first option on the midfielder.

Atletico Madrid are chasing the Spain U20 star, who comes off contract at the end of the season.

Merida has welcomed their interest, but his agent, Joseba Diaz, said: "Many clubs have contacted me about him, but we want to talk to Arsenal and then decide."