London, Oct. 30 Atletico Madrid has stepped up their interest in Arsenal ace Fran Merida.

The nineteen-year-old ten million pound midfielder scored a stunner against Liverpool in the Carling Cup on Wednesday.

But he could be a free agent in the summer and Atletico president Enrique Cerezo confirmed last night: "He has entered into our plans for next season.

"He is a player that interests us. The decision rests with the kid because he is free in June," The Sun quoted Cerezo as saying further.

Merida, however, wants to keep his options open and is currently talking to the Gunners about a new deal. (ANI)