Man Utd and Arsenal placed on red alert as Real Madrid star set for impending talks

Arsenal and Manchester United are thought to be keeping a close eye on developments surrounding Marco Asensio, as his future at Real Madrid remains in the balance.

The Spaniard, who's contract expires in June, has expressed his desire to stay with Los Blancos. However, contract negotiations have proved to be difficult, with the 27-year-old's wage demands said to be one factor, according to Spanish news outlet MARCA.

The report also states that Asensio is keen to understand his role within the team, favouring regular first team football above all else. He has only started one of Real Madrid's last six matches, with Carlo Ancelotti seeming to favour others in attack.

Further talks are scheduled to discuss his future in the Spanish capital. Meanwhile, Arsenal and Manchester United will be placed on red alert, ready to pounce should negotiations fall through.

Asensio to Man Utd?

Asensio was linked to the Red Devils earlier in the month, with Erik ten Hag seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, the United boss turned his attentions to Asensio after Cody Gakpo's move to Liverpool.

The report claimed that Real Madrid would not ask for more than €15-20 million to sell the Spain international to Old Trafford in January.

Defensa Central also stated that United could afford Asensio's wage demands, believed to be around €6 million a year, and would therefore be able to get a deal done during the window.

However, this was before they signed Wout Weghorst on loan, who was meant to provide short-term cover for Ronaldo, with Ten Hag reportedly eyeing up a summer move for a permanent striker.

Asensio to Arsenal?

Asensio was rumoured with a move to North London last month, after it emerged that Real would be open to offers.

Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo claimed that Real could sell Asensio this January, along with a whole host of other fringe players.

The report also mentioned that the Gunners were waiting in the wings, and ready to make an offer should the opportunity arise.

Fascinatingly, Real Madrid's historic rivals Barcelona were also thought to be sniffing around, with the pair in discussions over a controversial switch for the first time since 1996.

Topics: Arsenal, Manchester United, Premier League, Real Madrid, Marco Asensio, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno