Alex Song urged to join Barcelona by former Arsenal star Fran Merida

Arsenal midfielder Alex Song (GETTY IMAGES)

Former Arsenal star Fran Merida has urged Alex Song to consider joining Barcelona.

Reports in Spain suggest Barca have already submitted a bid for the Cameroon international midfielder, who has confirmed his awareness of the Primera Division club's interest.

Merida, who left the Nou Camp to join the Gunners in 2007, struggled to make an impact in the first team and eventually moved to Atletico Madrid in 2010.

Now playing for Segunda Division side Hercules, the 22-year-old told COMRadio: "I think he is a player who can contribute a lot to Barcelona because he's a very good player.

"He has the physical characteristics and is not short of quality.

"He's always cheerful, smiling, playful and is a very good person."

On Sunday, Song told Sky Sports News: "I am not going to lie if I said there is no interest, but I am at Arsenal and I am happy at Arsenal.

"Barcelona are the best team in the world, and speculation will always continue until the window closes."

PA