After a fruitful relationship between Arsenal and Real Madrid has seen Dani Ceballos come on loan and Martin Odegaard make a permanent switch, Arsenal have their eyes set on another Real Madrid player, and that is Marco Asensio.
Asensio arrived at the Bernabeu as a highly sought-after 18 year year old who was expected to dazzle under the bright lights. However, that potential hasn’t come to fruition as he has only managed to net 28 goals across the 160 matches that he has featured in.
However, at the tender age of 26, there is still time for him to reach the potential that many thought he was capable of and a fresh start in a different scenario might be the kickstart that he needs.
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According to Sport Witness, the Gunners have their eyes set on the young Spaniard but face stiff competition from the Serie A champions, AC Milan. Reports suggest that Paolo Maldini, the developmental director of the club and Carlo Ancelotti have begun a dialogue about adding Asensio who at this time, is deemed surplus to requirement as Real Madrid continue to add world class talent.
However, the problem for the Italian champions as with another league competing with Premier League teams, is the financial implications. Asensio is seeking €7M in salary and the Rossoneri are reluctant to match those expectations.
Arsenal are amongst the clubs willing to meet these salary expectations and won’t be strapped for cash if the situation advances further.
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With the young Spaniard’s deal expiring in 2023, it is unlikely that Madrid will ask for an astronomical fee.
A report from Sport Witness suggested that figure would be around the €30M mark which is well within Arsenal’s budget. The question that then needs answering is whether the Gunners see this as a priority signing considering all the other areas they need to target or is this something that will be revisited later on in the window.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Marco Asensio, Arsenal, Transfers, Real Madrid