According to a report by GOAL on Friday, October 23, 2026, Arsenal have identified Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena as a surprise target for the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options for the second half of the season.

The Gunners are reportedly preparing to renew their interest in the Spain international after losing Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard during the summer transfer window.

Reports suggest that Baena has emerged as a potential signing when the transfer window reopens in January. Arsenal previously pursued the 25-year-old in 2024 before he completed his move from Villarreal to Atletico Madrid.

The winger’s versatility is believed to be a major factor behind Arsenal’s interest, as he can operate on either flank or in a central attacking role.

Arsenal signed Christos Tzolis as a direct replacement for their departing wide players, but Arteta is reportedly keen to bring additional attacking quality into his squad.

However, persuading Atletico Madrid to sell Baena could prove challenging. The Spanish international is under contract at the Metropolitano until 2030 and remains an important member of Diego Simeone’s squad.

Baena has reportedly made an impressive start to the season, registering five goals and two assists in nine appearances. His performances could strengthen Atletico’s determination to keep him at the club.

Meanwhile, Baena is not the only Atletico Madrid player on Arsenal’s radar, as the Premier League side continue to monitor striker Julian Alvarez.

The Argentine forward was reportedly Arsenal’s main attacking target during the summer transfer window, but Atletico refused to sanction his departure. His reported valuation has since fallen from €150 million to €120 million.

Arsenal could attempt to raise funds by selling Viktor Gyokeres, who has reportedly been valued at £64 million. However, Alvarez’s reported preference for Barcelona could complicate the Gunners’ pursuit of the striker.

For now, Baena represents another potential option as Arsenal seek to address their shortage of wide attacking players. However, a January move remains uncertain, with Atletico’s willingness to negotiate likely to determine whether the Gunners can secure his signature.