The Spanish club continues to be linked with a move for the Liverpool defender after their approach in early January

Further down the pitch, Arsenal need to decide on a No 6 for the future. Thomas Partey, who turns 32 in the summer, and Jorginho, 33, are both into the final six months of their contracts. While Declan Rice can play as a No 6, his talents are better utilised as the left No 8 in Mikel Arteta’s system.

Real Madrid remain relentless in their pursuit of signing Trent Alexander-Arnold either this month for a reduced fee or on a free transfer at the end of the season