Arsenal in talks with Marco Asensio’s entourage

Arsenal are in contact with the entourage of Real Madrid star Marco Asensio over a free transfer this summer, Spanish publication Sport claim (page 9).

The 27-year-old has been a key player for Los Blancos over the years, but his playing time has drastically reduced under manager Carlo Ancelotti.

As a result, the Spain international is ‘seriously thinking’ about leaving the European champions when his contract expires at the end of the campaign.

It is now reported that Arsenal have been in talks with his agency regarding his availability. Alongside AC Milan, they are ‘willing to bid’  to sign him for free.

Asensio would be a fantastic acquisition on a free transfer

Asensio has played just over 1,100 minutes for Los Blancos in all competitions this season but he has been hugely effective with six goals and five assists.

The Spaniard has predominantly operated from the right flank, but he can also comfortably play from the left side of the attack or from the number 10 spot.

Hence, he would be a fantastic acquisition on a free transfer. Asensio would provide quality competition and depth in multiple positions for the Gunners.

With Champions League football almost assured for next season, the north London giants should be a lucrative destination for the 35-cap international.

With competition from AC Milan, the club may need to act fast and negotiate a pre-contract.

Asensio is currently on weekly wages of around £168,000 and the Gunners may have to pay him more than £200,000 alongside a huge signing-on fee.

Arsenal should easily afford his demands with their Champions League return. They are already in the process of handing bumper deals to first-team stars.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Capology.com