Arsenal given opportunity to finally sign 'phenomenal' playmaker they were first linked with in 2012

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Sevilla midfielder Isco, 10 years after they were first linked to the player before his move to Real Madrid.

Isco came through the youth system of Valencia, rising to prominence during the most successful period of Malaga's history after he joined the club in 2011.

They finished in fourth place in La Liga during the 2011/12 season under Manuel Pellegrini. In the process, Malaga secured a spot in the Champions League for the first time, although they had to progress through the play-off round.

Just 19 years old when the season began, Isco made 25 league appearances, scoring on five occasions.

He won the 2012 Golden Boy award, and signed a new deal with Malaga in January 2013.

But that wasn't enough to deter other clubs, and Real announced his signing the following summer after activating his €35 million release clause.

Los Blancos were not the only club interested in signing Isco, however, with Arsenal linked with a move for the player for just £5 million in early 2012.

Ultimately, the bids that came in for Isco in 2013 were from Real and Manchester City, who had just appointed his former boss Pellegrini.

Now, over 10 years on from their original links, Arsenal might finally seal a deal for a player who remains one of Spain's top playmakers.

Isco to Arsenal?

According to Spanish outlet Marca, Sevilla are set to put Isco up for sale in January, just six months after signing him on a free transfer following the expiration of his Real contract.

They claim that the player had a 'strong confrontation' with director of football Monchi, with the outcome of talks being that the club will look to move him on.

The same source names Wolves as a possible destination for Isco, given that ex-Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui is in charge at Molineux. However, The Sun claim that Arsenal have been put on red alert by the latest developments, and could potentially make a move in January.

His former boss at Real, Zinedine Zidane, described Isco as 'phenomenal' following his performance in a 6-2 win in 2017.

But given that the Gunners already have Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe in creative midfield positions, it may be that Mikel Arteta will want to prioritise other areas.

According to reports in Italy, Liverpool made a £47 million bid for Isco in 2020, but it was rejected by Real. It is unclear whether they retain interest in the player this time around.