The Salernitana ace, who is nicknamed ‘the Maradona of the Andes’ are also being linked with Genoa and Fiorentina.
“Merino can play in a number of positions, a little like Maradona, and it is clear may teams want him,” his agent Jose Alberti told Tutto Mercato.
“Manchester City are in the race for his signature, on Monday they will be in Salerno to make their offer because Merino is the ideal foil for Robinho and Elano.
“Galatasaray have also asked about him, but his preference is to remain in Italy.”
