Mikel Merino, currently deployed as a makeshift striker at , has hinted at his desire for a pay increase following his recent goal-scoring exploits. The Spanish midfielder turned forward, who notched the winning goal against Chelsea last weekend, wants recognition for his added responsibilities since filling in up top after an injury sidelined Kai Havertz.

Despite Merino's form, Arsenal are expected to dive back into the market for a centre-forward this summer, having missed out on Ollie Watkins in January. With the anticipated appointment of Andrea Berta, formerly with Atletico Madrid, as the new sporting director, the club is poised to nail down future signings.

When questioned about whether Arsenal still needs a striker given his own success in front of goal, the £27.4m recruit replied: "The question is for (Mikel) Arteta and the new sporting director.

Pressed on whether Berta is set to join the Gunners from Atletico Madrid, Merino responded: "Andrea Berta? I don't know if it is official and so I don't know anything."

He then quipped: "But I will do one thing: I will ask him for an attacker's contract, they earn more and now I have two roles to play."

While Merino contemplates his contract in jest, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka is in a race against time to return from a hamstring injury in the hope of featuring in the Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid on April 8.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Merino acknowledged the magnitude of the clash with Madrid: "It will be a really tough game. It is an historic challenge for us and we are very hungry.

"Until now we have played a great Champions League, both in the league phase and against PSV. Madrid historically feel at home in this competition. We do not lack confidence, we have to believe, we are on the way up.

"They have a gift, they are able to live on the edge, stay calm in moments of chaos and difficulty. Experience counts, the mentality and maturity to know how to handle confusing situations and then strike. Mentally and physically they are very strong, in addition to having players of a very high technical level."

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