Marco Asensio’s future is up in smoke as the Spanish forward’s contract with Real Madrid expires this summer. As such, he is set to call time on his career with the defending champions of Spain and Europe and look for an adventure elsewhere.

One destination that is appearing to be likely for Asensio is in England. Arsenal are interested in the 27-year-old and the player’s agent will fly to London this week to hold talks with the table-toppers in the Premier League.

While Asensio has previously stated that he will wait until March to evaluate whether Real Madrid offer him fresh terms or not, the reality is that he is exploring options as time seems to be running out on his contract. Asensio had joined Los Blancos from Mallorca in a deal worth less than £4million in 2014.

Asensio’s contract situation has opened up a lucrative opportunity for other clubs who are looking to explore his signing. Mikel Arteta is said to be an admirer of the player which has led to Arsenal emerging as strong contenders for his services. Reports suggest that Asensio is looking for a four-year contract and wants a higher salary than the reported £118,000 per week which he earns at Real Madrid currently.

While the winger and attacking midfielder was initially on the fringes of the squad for a very long time, he is starting to see more action as of late under Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti. However, there are no long-term assurances regarding his future at Real Madrid.

It was widely believed that up until last year that Asensio was in favour of looking for a departure and the priority for his contract renewal was the promise of more game time. However, now that the situation has changed with the Spaniard receiving considerable prominence on the pitch, tensions have eased between his representatives and the club.

Club president Florentino Perez is said to be a fan of the player and has also made his admiration known to Asensio who is slowly recovering his best form. Madrid are well aware that Asensio could prove to be a key player for them in the remainder of the season as they continue to push for La Liga, having fallen behind Barcelona.