Arsenal transfer news: James Maddison, Marco Asensio, Luka Jovic

Arsenal are interested in signing Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic

Arsenal told not to sign James Maddison

Arsenal were heavily linked with Leicester midfielder James Maddison during the summer window but the deal did not materialise.

The Gunners instead ended up signing Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid.

Former Arsenal star Michael Thomas has now insisted Mikel Arteta abandon the pursuit of Maddison due to the presence of Emile Smith Rowe.

Smith Rowe has grown by leaps and bounds this season, excelling in the attacking midfield role, the position Maddison plays under Brendan Rodgers.

Thomas said (h/t Football London): “[Smith Rowe] has been in really good form, carrying the ball and getting into goal scoring positions which is what you want to see from him. I think long-term, you will see him in a more central position, but right now I think that left hand side suits him really well.

“It means he is able to pick the ball up already on the half turn and have a view of the whole pitch going forwards.

“I think Maddison gives you a different threat, but for me another signing in the middle is more of a must now.”

Arsenal in the race for Marco Asensio

Arsenal and Liverpool have reportedly joined the transfer race for Real Madrid star Marco Asensio, who is considering his future at Bernabeu.

The Spanish winger has lost his place to Vinicius Jr in the starting line-up, with the Brazilian reaching the untouchable status due to his stellar form this season.

Los Blancos are ready to sell the 25-year-old, whose contract expires in 2023.

Ancelotti speaks on Jovic amid Arsenal links

It has been reported recently that the Gunners are keeping tabs on Luka Jovic’s situation at Real Madrid ahead of a potential January move.

Now, Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti has stated that the Serbian striker is happy at the Spanish capital and can regain confidence sooner.

The Italian manager said: “I think Jovic is fine, happy to be here. He is a player that I like as a striker. He knows it. He has the best striker in the world in front of him in Benzema. He should have faith that he is going to have his opportunity and that he can recover well.”