Report: Arsenal on alert as PL & CL winner yet to sign new contract

Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz amid growing uncertainty over his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 25-year-old, who previously spent time in England with Manchester City, has yet to finalize a new contract with the Spanish giants despite recent talks of an agreement.

Díaz, who has lifted both the Premier League and the Champions League during his career, is currently under contract with Real Madrid until 2027. However, reports from Football España suggest that while an agreement on fresh terms had been reached, nothing has been officially signed—leaving room for speculation and potential movement.

This development has placed Arsenal on high alert. The Gunners, who have been proactive in strengthening their squad this summer, are believed to be keeping close tabs on the playmaker’s situation. Their interest is not without competition, as AC Milan—where Díaz spent three seasons on loan—is also reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing him back.

Despite Díaz’s existing deal, the lack of a finalized extension has led to uncertainty behind the scenes at Madrid. Sources close to the club suggest the issue may be tied to sporting guarantees and playing time—something he has struggled with consistently under Carlo Ancelotti due to the presence of stars like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior.

For Arsenal, the potential availability of Díaz offers a tactical opportunity. Manager Mikel Arteta has seen his side add defensive steel and attacking depth in the summer transfer window, but concerns persist over Martin Ødegaard’s recent dip in form. Díaz could provide a fresh creative spark in the No.10 role or as a flexible attacker in Arteta’s fluid system.

What also makes Díaz an appealing target is his versatility and experience across top leagues. After flourishing during his loan spell at AC Milan—where he was a key figure in their 2021–22 Serie A title win—he returned to Madrid last season and made crucial contributions in both La Liga and the Champions League.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s transfer activity has already raised eyebrows across Europe. The arrivals of Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke, Christian Nørgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, and Kepa Arrizabalaga suggest the club is building a side capable of challenging for major honors. Díaz’s arrival would elevate that ambition even further.

However, the North London club may need to make space in their squad before pursuing Díaz seriously. Players such as Leandro Trossard, Reiss Nelson, and Jakub Kiwior could be offloaded to free up room and funds, especially if the club wishes to comply with FFP guidelines amid an already busy window.

There’s also the question of Díaz’s willingness to return to England. Having left City for more playing time and a stronger sense of identity, the Spaniard may view Arsenal—under Arteta’s guidance—as a better fit than his previous stint in Manchester. That said, Madrid are unlikely to sell cheaply or let him go without a strong replacement lined up.

No formal negotiations have been reported as of now, but insiders say both Arsenal and AC Milan are prepared to move swiftly should Díaz signal an openness to a move. The coming weeks will be crucial as contract talks at Madrid either progress—or stall even further.

For now, Arsenal fans will have to watch closely as one of Europe’s most skillful midfielders faces a pivotal decision. Whether he stays at Madrid or embarks on a new journey, Brahim Díaz could end up being one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer.