Arsenal keen on Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza | OneFootball

Arsenal are closely keeping tabs on Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza ahead of a possible move, according to the Telegraph.

The Gunners’ recruitment specialists have been tracking the 20-year-old Spain youth international’s progress as they look to keep strengthening their options.

However, Arsenal will face competition from Real Madrid. While a summer deal is more likely, a winter transfer window exit cannot be completely ruled out.

Mendoza is a creative midfielder who has been compared to Barcelona playmaker Pedri, and Arteta and his coaches love his style of play.

He has a release clause of €20 million (£17.5m) and will become the most expensive sale in Elche’s history if any of his suitors trigger his release clause in January or next summer.

The talented attacker has played 10 games across all competitions this term, scoring two goals. He can play on the left wing and behind the striker despite primarily being a central midfielder.

Mendoza played a considerable role in helping his club secure promotion from the Spanish second division at the end of last term, and Madrid are long-term admirers.

He has represented Spain at youth levels and has been tipped to become a star for the senior side soon.

Clubs from the Serie A are also monitoring Mendoza, and a move where he can keep playing regularly to continue his development would appeal to him.