ARSENAL have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Marco Asensio as his contract talks with Real Madrid have reportedly stalled.
The Spaniard is believed to be keen on staying at the Santiago Bernabeu but his contract is set to expire at end of the season.
The attacking midfielder was offered a new deal a few months ago but it is still yet to be signed, according to Marca.
The report suggests that the proposed deal is a long way off what he is demanding.
Marca claims that he has been offered a deal worth £3.56million per year, while he is aiming for a wage increase to £5.34m per year.
Premier League odds and betting tips
It is also said that his agent - Jorge Mendes - is being "inflexible in this type of negotiation".
Madrid are believed to want Asensio to sign a contract running till 2026, but will not pay over the odds for him.
Especially as he is not a guaranteed starter for the LaLiga side following the cruciate ligament injury he suffered in 2019.
This could open the door as Mikel Arteta is keen to boost his squad with experienced, quality players.
And the Gunners have already held talks with Asensio’s people over a move to England.
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS - BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
AC Milan have also made contact with Mendes, who became Asensio’s agent last year.
But it’s claimed the player harbours a secret wish to join Real’s rivals Barcelona.
Xavi Hernandez is said to be a big fan of Asensio.
And the player himself would have no issue making the infamous switch.
World Cup hero wants Man Utd move as doubts over Harry Maguire's future grow
Talking about Asensio’s Real Madrid future, boss Carlo Ancelotti said last month: “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.”