The winger, who admits his footballing idol is Andres Iniesta, has been named by Luis Enrique as a preferred target for this summer

The Turkey international has already confirmed he plans to quit Atletico Madrid this summer and the Liga champions have emerged as heavy favourites for his signature.

The 28-year-old was forced to deny he had already signed a deal with Barca but Bartomeu, who is hoping to secure re-election this month, has revealed head coach Luis Enrique wants to sign him.

"He's a very good player, has real quality and perfectly marries what Luis Enrique wants for next season," Bartomeu told Esport3. "As such, as a candidate, I encourage the board to sign the player.

"In this way, next season, we'll have a team that will be very competitive and primed to win all possible titles."

Arda himself has further fuelled speculation that he could join the European champions after admitting that his footballing idol is already at the club.

"My idols? Emre Belozoglu, when he played at Galatasaray, but now it's Iniesta. He's from my era, but that doesn't matter. I have a lot of admiration for him."

The versatile attacking midfielder also admitted he likes watching Barca on TV - but not Real Madrid.

"When I don't have important things to do, and Barca are playing, I watch them on TV. Real Madrid - no! And I love Atletico, but I can't watch them as I'm playing."