Arsenal Transfer News: Gunners Move a Step Closer to Signing Real Madrid’s Esteban Granero

With the January transfer window fast approaching, Arsenal are reported to have moved a step closer to signing Real Madrid playmaker Esteban Granero. The English club, following concerns over Jack Wilshere's recovery from injury, had previously opened talks with the Santiago Bernabeu outfit over the young midfielder, who is valued at £6 million.

A Spanish newspaper, Marca, has also claimed that Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has contacted his counterpart at Real, Jose Mourinho, to enquire about latest developments involving the youngster and if he will be available in January.

Granero has found it tough to break into Real's first team since the arrival of Mourinho and has found it even harder with those of Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira.

Wenger, however, believes that Granero could play a big part at the Emirates and in the process also rejuvenate his career, according to a Talksport report.

Although Real have valued Granero at £6 million, they're hopeful about a rise in the player's price amid negotiations. The club have reportedly told the Gunners they are keen on keeping the 24-year-old until the end of the season, although he has been used sparingly.

The player, who made 32 appearances for Real Madrid last season as a substitute, has played just seven minutes in two matches off the bench in the current season. Although the Gunners know the Spaniard could be a perfect substitute for the injured Jack Wilshere, who, even if he recovers smoothly from an ankle injury, is set to be out for a total of seven months, Granero has attracted attention from big-spending Malaga and signing him may become tough.

Granero, during his stint with Getafe, scored nine goals in 62 matches.