Arsenal join race for Asensio as Gunners 'contact his agent to discuss demands'

Arsenal are the latest club to reportedly declare their interest in Marco Asensio, who has opened the door to a Real Madrid exit this summer.

The winger is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract at the Bernabeu, with talks over an extension currently stalling.

As a result, Real Madrid may cash in on Asensio rather than risk losing him for free in a year's time and Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham have all been linked with a move for him.

According to The Mirror, Arsenal have 'contacted Asensio's representatives' to ask about his demands, which are currently not being met by Los Blancos.

The report adds that the Gunners not being in the Champions League next season makes a move to the Emirates Stadium less tempting for him, but it is not a deal-breaker. The Spaniard is also said to want a guarantee of regular football.

Asensio is currently away on international duty, but is expected to make a decision on his future after Spain's camp ends.

'I have one year left on my contract,' the 26-year-old said earlier this week. 'Now, I am focused on the national team.

'When this is over, we will talk. We will see what I will do with my future. I think there are possibilities. There is also the option to stay and fulfil my contract year.

'Rumours are part of football, and more so at Real Madrid. High-level players are always associated with it. It's something we have to live with.'

Asensio has spent the last seven and a half years at the Bernabeu, winning three La Liga titles and three Champions League crowns.

He started only half of Real's league games last season but still contributed with 10 goals - his best ever tally for a single campaign and more than in his previous three combined.

The majority of Asensio's appearances have come on the right wing, where Bukayo Saka is currently deployed for Arsenal, but he is also capable of playing on the left or in the number 10 role.