Atletico Madrid are close to beating Arsenal, Roma and Inter Milan to the signing of Porto midfielder Hector Herrera, according to reports in Spain.

The Mexican international is out of contract in the summer and will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Arsenal are believed to have made an offer to Herrera, but the 28-year-old is said to be keen on working with Atletico boss Diego Simeone.

The Argentine is reportedly the driving force behind the La Liga club’s pursuit of the midfielder, and it seems he has played a key role in securing the player’s services.

Atletico are expected to agree a three or four-year contract with Herrera, who has spent the last six seasons with Porto after joining from Pachuca for €8m in June 2013.

This campaign, he has made 42 appearances in all competitions for his club, having scored seven goals and provided two assists.