Arsenal have reportedly entered talks with Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio, as the Spanish international’s contract with the La Liga giants expires at the end of the season.

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 25: Marco Asensio of Real Madrid reacts during the LaLiga Santander match between Real Madrid CF and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 25, 2023 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 25: Marco Asensio of Real Madrid reacts during the LaLiga Santander match between Real Madrid CF and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 25, 2023 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Asensio has grown frustrated with his lack of playing time under manager Carlo Ancelotti and is open to a move away from the Bernabeu.

The 27-year-old winger has also been linked with AC Milan, Newcastle, and Barcelona.

Asensio has featured 31 times across all competitions this season, scoring six goals and providing five assists.

He has, however, only played 1,141 minutes in total, leading to his frustration with his role in the team.

His representatives were said to be in London in February to hold talks with Premier League clubs, and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen on signing the winger.

Now, the club has reportedly ‘entered talks’.

However, Asensio’s high wage demands may prove to be an obstacle to a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.

The player is said to be looking for a four-year contract with higher wages than his current £118,000 per week.

Arsenal are said to be mulling over a contract offer for the Spaniard, but a deal is yet to be agreed.

Asensio joined Real Madrid from Mallorca in 2015 and spent the 2015-16 season on loan at Espanyol, where he scored four goals in 34 appearances. Since returning to Madrid, he has won three UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and four Club World Cup titles. Asensio has also been capped 35 times by the Spanish national team, scoring two goals.

The player is known for his technical ability, dribbling skills, and powerful shot. He primarily operates on the right wing but can also play on the left or as an attacking midfielder, and has been used twice this season as a centre forward.

In recent comments, Ancelotti appeared indifferent towards Asensio’s contract situation, stating, “He looks good to me, I don’t know if he will stay or not. He may or may not stay, I don’t know, I don’t care much. We have a very important challenge this season. The important thing is that he is contributing, like last year. Let him continue like this, and the club will make the most appropriate decision.”