Arsenal are reportedly targeting Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena for a January transfer as injuries leave Mikel Arteta’s side short of options in attack.
The Spain international has made a strong impression in La Liga, having previously played for Villarreal before joining Atletico. He has also featured for the Spanish national team.
Baena has registered 10 goal contributions this season, scoring six times and providing four assists for Atletico and Spain, including during the recent Nations League fixtures.
Arsenal consider Alex Baena to address left-wing shortage
The interest comes as Arsenal’s attacking options continue to be affected by injuries. Christos Tzolis, who joined the club from Club Brugge during the summer, began his Arsenal career positively but is now unavailable.
Eberechi Eze has operated on the left but is considered more comfortable in a central role, while Noni Madueke can play there despite spending most of his career on the right.
With Bukayo Saka also facing a possible spell out, Madueke may be required to return to his usual flank. That would leave Arsenal in need of another left-sided attacking option, with Baena viewed as a potential solution.
Arsenal had attempted to strengthen their squad during the summer but failed to sign several high-profile targets, including Morgan Rogers, Vinicius Junior and Julian Alvarez.
Any move for Baena in January is expected to be difficult. Atletico are unlikely to want to lose an important player midway through the season unless they receive a substantial offer.
