Arsenal are interested in a short-term loan deal for Real Madrid midfielder Isco, though the situation is still in the early stages.

Mark Mann-Bryans initially reported on Tuesday that the rumours of Arsenal interest in Isco were genuine. He claimed it would be a half-season loan, but it’s still in the early stages and dependent on several factors.

Notably, Real Madrid would need to pay a percentage of Isco’s wages and Arsenal would need to sell at least one player.

The Telegraph add that talks are at an early stage, but Arsenal indeed have Isco on their January shortlist to fill the creative gap in their squad.

The player himself is keen to move on from Madrid, where he’s struggling for chances. Sevilla are also an option, but Real would prefer their player to move abroad – ideally on a permanent deal.

There’s little chance Arsenal agree to that, but a loan does make some sense. Isco is an experienced player with strong creative stats who could help the team out until the summer, when the club need to make a longer-term signing.

Isco has made 11 appearances for Real Madrid this season, but only has 357 minutes on the pitch, fewer than four full games. Ahead of the Euros in the summer, you can see why he might want a January move.