Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi’s future at the club remains up in the air, and Sport are now reporting that Arsenal are interested in his services.

Per Sport Witness the Spanish newspaper say Arsenal have joined the race for Illarramendi just days after Marca insisted that the Gunners are not interested in signing him.

The midfielder was spectacular for Real Sociedad in the 2012/13 season as they qualified for the Champions League, and his form prompted Real Madrid to sign him for €32M.

That transfer hasn’t worked out (despite Illarramendi’s good form) because bigger names like Xabi Alonso, Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos have continuously been selected over the Spaniard. This summer Casemiro has rejoined the Spanish giants after a spell at FC Porto and Mateo Kovačić has been signed, meaning opportunities will only become more limited for Illarramendi.

The Gunners have just Francis Coquelin and Mikel Arteta for the deepest midfield position, with Mathieu Flamini not considered a real option. Coquelin doesn’t seem to be a suitable partner for Welshman Aaron Ramsey and his discipline could remain an issue, as shown last weekend at Crystal Palace. Arteta, meanwhile, has played in just one game since November and his fitness can’t be relied upon.

With Juventus and Liverpool interested Arsenal should act fast; Illarramendi would be the perfect addition to Arsène Wenger’s midfield.