Arsenal are reportedly ready to hold talks with Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio over a potential move in the summer as a free agent.

The Lowdown: Contract expiring

The 27-year-old's contract in Madrid is set to expire in the summer, meaning that he can leave as a free agent at the end of the season.

With the January transfer window now concluded, clubs can start laying the groundwork for moves that they would like to make in the summer, and Asensio is sure to be a player in demand given his contract situation.

The Latest: Talks ready for Asensio

As per The Daily Mirror, the Spaniard's agents are flying into London this week to feel out interest from the Premier League in the player, with Real Madrid holding off talks over a potential new contract until March or April.

Asensio wants to sign a four-year deal with a new club worth more than what he is earning at the Santiago Bernabeu (£118,000 per week), and Mikel Arteta is thought to be a big admirer of his as Arsenal look to plot a potential free transfer.

The Verdict: Saka competition needed

With Marquinhos leaving on loan for Norwich City in January, and Reiss Nelson currently injured, Bukayo Saka has not had much competition for his right-wing berth in the Gunners' squad.

He has played in every single game bar one at the Emirates Stadium so far this season and is in need of more rotation at the risk of picking up an injury and not burning out.

Lauded as "spectacular" by his former agent Horacio Gaggioli, Asensio has had an illustrious career at the age of just 27, winning no fewer than three Champions League titles with Real Madrid, along with a host of other major accolades.

The Spain international is a player from whom 21-year-old Saka can learn and grow with if he joins Arsenal, and on a free transfer, this is a deal which would make a lot of sense for the Gunners.