A boost for the title race. Arsenal open talks over Atlético winger

London giants Arsenal have held preliminary talks with Atlético Madrid over a potential move for Spain international winger Alex Baena, 25, during the upcoming January window.

Details: According to transfer outlet Transfersdotcom, the Gunners’ recruitment team, led by Mikel Arteta, highly value the Spanish champion’s versatility. Baena can operate equally effectively on either flank, while also taking on the role of a creative midfielder in the centre of the pitch — a profile that fits perfectly into the London club’s tactical system.

The English club’s hierarchy hope to establish the framework for a potential deal in advance in order to get ahead of possible rivals in the European market. Atlético are ready to consider concrete offers for the player if the Gunners put forward a convincing fee as early as the middle of the current season.

It is worth noting that Alex Baena attracted the attention of Europe’s top clubs thanks to his brilliant performances for Villarreal, with whom he won the Europa League and was named La Liga’s best assist provider, before moving to Atlético. In Spain colours, the winger has won European Championship and World Cup gold medals, underlining his status as one of the continent’s most incisive and productive creators.

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