Real Madrid closely tracking Arsenal teenage star with contract talks at impasse | OneFootball

Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on one of Arsenal’s most promising youngsters, Myles Lewis-Skelly, as uncertainty clouds the future of the left-back position under new head coach Xabi Alonso.

According to The Guardian (via ESPN), the Spanish giants are seriously interested in the 18-year-old, who has made a name for himself at Arsenal despite playing out of position.

Lewis-Skelly, a natural midfielder, was thrust into the left-back role this season and quickly became a standout performer.

Real Madrid striking at right time

His adaptability and maturity earned him over 40 appearances across competitions for Arsenal, where he notched one goal and three assists.

His rise did not go unnoticed at the international level either, as he was rewarded with a senior England call-up.

The timing of Real Madrid’s interest is no coincidence. Lewis-Skelly’s contract with Arsenal runs until 2026, but talks over a renewal are reportedly stalling.

Real Madrid are tracking Myles Lewis-Skelly. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

With no significant progress in negotiations, Arsenal face mounting pressure to tie him down or risk losing one of their brightest prospects.

Real Madrid’s defensive reinforcement

From Madrid’s perspective, the left-back position remains unresolved. Ferland Mendy, while defensively solid and reliable when fit, has been hampered by repeated injuries and does not offer the attacking prowess typically required in a modern full-back.

Under Alonso’s likely tactical setup, Mendy could be seen more as a backup option. Meanwhile, Fran Garcia, though more suited to Alonso’s style, has not fully convinced the club’s decision-makers.

The acquisition of Alvaro Carreras offers depth, but there is a sense that Madrid need depth in that area, someone who is tactically flexible, and ready to develop into a complete player. That is where Lewis-Skelly fits the bill.

The 18-year-old has demonstrated an impressive football IQ, positional awareness, and work ethic, all qualities Alonso is known to value.

If Real Madrid are successful in luring him away from North London, it could represent both a strategic coup and a step toward rejuvenating a position that has lacked long-term stability since Marcelo’s departure.