Arsenal are now considering a move for Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena when the January transfer window opens, with Mikel Arteta looking to bolster his wide attacking options for the second half of the season.

As reported by GOAL on Friday, October 23, 2026, the Gunners have rekindled their interest in the Spain international after losing Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to other clubs in the summer transfer window.

They had previously been in talks to sign Baena in 2024 before he made the switch from Villarreal to Atletico Madrid. The 25-year-old has since become a target for Arsenal as they seek to improve their attacking depth and options, with the player being versatile enough to play on either flank and in a central attacking role.

Despite bringing in Christos Tzolis to fill the void left by their departing wide men, Arteta is understood to be keen on adding to his attacking options in the winter transfer window.

However, it is unlikely that Arsenal will be able to sign Baena, who has a contract with Atletico until 2030 and is still considered a key player by manager Diego Simeone.

Baena’s performances this season may also put off potential suitors, with the winger scoring five goals and recording two assists in nine matches.

The former Villarreal man has been in excellent form, which means that Atletico Madrid will be even less likely to consider selling him. Julian Alvarez is another forward who has caught the attention of Arsenal, with the striker supposedly their primary target during the summer transfer window.

However, Atletico refused to sell the Argentina international, and his value has since dropped from €150 million to €120 million.

Viktor Gyokeres could be sold to fund a move for Alvarez, with the striker reportedly valued at £64 million by Arsenal. The forward’s desire to move to Barcelona, however, may scupper any potential deal.

Baena is also a target for Arsenal as they look to add to their attacking options, but it is uncertain whether the Gunners will be able to sign him in January. It all depends on whether Atletico Madrid will be willing to sell one of their forwards.