ARSENAL fans have been left fuming at an “underwhelming Granit Xhaka downgrade” as they battle Barcelona for Spain ace Mikel Merino.

The former Newcastle star has spent the past six years with Real Sociedad, helping them become one of LaLiga’s top sides.

Arsenal are targeting a move for Spain and Real Sociedad star Mikel Merino

Some fans believe the Barcelona target is a downgrade on Granit Xhaka

But Merino’s contract expires at the end of next season.

And clubs are preparing to go to war over his signature.

Barcelona is reportedly in the lead race for Merino, a playmaker who plays deep.

However, as Mundo Deportivo reports that Mikel Arteta views him as a substitute for Xhaka, Catalan officials are afraid Arsenal could usurp the transfer.

After leaving for Bayer Leverkusen last summer, the Swiss star helped the team win their first-ever championship.

Arsenal used both Thomas Partey and Jorginho in Xhaka’s place despite signing Declan Rice for £100million.

But Arteta wants a new No6 to take control of midfield and allow Rice to push forward in attack.

Merino’s profile fits the bill, while his experience means he will be expected to hit the ground running.

However, some Arsenal fans are not keen on the proposed move.

One said: “An underwhelming Xhaka downgrade.”

Another declared: “Merino in the Xhaka role? I really want Ebe Eze.”

One noted: “I really don’t think this is good enough for a team that wants to win the league and challenge for Europe.”

But one fan believes Merino would be a good fit.

They added: “Merino is a tall Xhaka and a bit faster. Hope we sign him, he is a very good player for midfield.”