Fran Merida is reported to have snubbed a new deal at Arsenal and signed for Atletico Madrid. Sources in the Spanish capital claim that Merida has agreed terms with Atletico, to join them in the summer. 25-5-10: Atletico Madrid have confirmed the capture of promising midfielder Fran Merida on a four-year contract. The youngster heads back to his Spanish roots after four years at Arsenal. He joined the Gunners in 2006 having cut his teeth in the academy ranks at Catalan giants Barcelona. Merida was forced to bide his time at Emirates Stadium, though, with first-team opportunities hard to find. He leaves Arsenal having made only 16 senior appearances under Arsene Wenger. His most productive season to date actually came during a spell in the Primera Liga, with a loan stint at Real Sociedad in 2007/08 allowing him to experience life at the top level. The 20-year-old is now set to head back home once more, with his contract at Arsenal due to expire on 30th June. Merida will be officially unveiled as an Atletico Madrid player during a ceremony at Vicente Calderon on Friday.