Arsenal eye Alex Baena as major target for 2026 transfer

Arsenal are weighing a move for Alex Baena, the 25-year-old winger at Atletico Madrid, as Mikel Arteta eyes further attacking options ahead of next summer’s transfer window. Baena’s versatility and growing form for club and country have placed him on Arsenal’s short list, though Atletico Madrid are eager to keep one of their key attackers.

Alex Baena transfer

Arsenal are monitoring Alex Baena as they plan for reinforcements ahead of the 2027 campaign, with the Atletico Madrid winger identified as a potential solution to the club’s attacking needs. Baena, who joined Atletico from Villarreal, has become a regular creative presence for Diego Simeone’s side, already contributing five goals and three assists this season.

The Spaniard primarily operates from the left flank but is comfortable functioning as an attacking midfielder through the middle, offering tactical flexibility that would suit Arteta’s adaptable systems. His technical abilities—close control, chance creation and the knack for unlocking compact defenses—are cited as major reasons Arsenal are keeping him on their radar.

Why Baena fits Arteta’s plans

Arteta’s squad has thrived on fluid attacking patterns and rotation to cope with a demanding schedule across domestic and European competitions. Baena’s capacity to alternate between winger and central roles would provide cover and fresh options alongside Arsenal’s current wide players, aligning with the manager’s strategic approach.

Baena’s profile was elevated by his performances for Spain during the World Cup, which increased his visibility across Europe. Atletico have placed a high value on the forward, extending his contract to 2030, and Simeone is understood to be reluctant to sanction a sale during the current season.

Negotiation challenges and timing

Even with Arsenal’s interest, securing Baena will not be straightforward. Atletico Madrid has signaled they do not intend to entertain January offers and are not under immediate financial pressure to sell, suggesting any potential move would likely be deferred to the summer.

That postponement gives Arsenal time to prepare a formal proposal but also strengthens Atletico’s negotiating position. Baena’s 2030 contract and Simeone’s desire to retain key attackers indicate Arsenal would need a substantial offer to trigger serious talks.

Background and recent form

A former Villarreal player, Baena has become an integral part of Atletico’s attacking unit. With five goals and three assists this season, he has demonstrated an ability to influence matches in the final third. His mix of chances creation and finishing ability has attracted interest from several elite clubs, according to reports.

Arsenal’s interest aligns with the club’s broader recruitment strategy of targeting technically skilled, versatile attackers who can adapt within Arteta’s tactical framework. Baena’s age, recent international exposure with Spain and La Liga experience fit that profile.

What Happens Next

For now, Arsenal are expected to continue tracking Baena’s situation and wait for a clearer signal from Atletico about any willingness to discuss a move, most likely in the summer. Any serious pursuit would depend on Atletico’s valuation, Baena’s openness to a transfer and Arsenal’s transfer priorities at that time.

If Arsenal move forward, they would need a plan that addresses Atletico’s reluctance to sell mid-season and presents a package compelling enough to prompt talks. Baena remains a player to watch as clubs prepare for the 2027 transfer window.

Source: Original report

Related: More Alex Baena transfer coverage