Arsenal have revived their interest in Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena ahead of the January transfer window, and could now provide competition for Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs Web reported earlier this month that Tottenham were considering an €80 million (£69.6 million) offer for the 25-year-old. The North Londoners are looking at attacking reinforcements following a series of injuries to their wide players.

Baena helped Spain win the World Cup last summer, making seven appearances and scoring once during the tournament. He has also made an impressive start to the new campaign at Atletico Madrid, attracting interest from several Premier League clubs.

Arsenal revive interest in Tottenham target Alex Baena

According to FootballTransfers, Arsenal have identified Baena as a potential signing in January. The report claims Mikel Arteta’s side are revisiting their interest in the winger, having previously targeted him in 2024.

Arsenal had also explored a move for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior during the summer, but instead brought in Christos Tzolis. They are now looking to strengthen their attacking options further, with Baena emerging as a target.

One interesting factor is Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta’s previous relationship with Atletico Madrid. Berta spent 12 seasons at the Spanish club and knows their setup well, which could prove useful if Arsenal decide to pursue a deal.

Baena’s versatility is another reason why he appeals to the Gunners. Although he is predominantly used on the left, the Spain international is also capable of operating centrally and has previously been considered as an option on the right.

Arsenal are not the only Premier League club to have been linked with Baena, however. Manchester City, Newcastle United and Aston Villa have also reportedly shown interest in the 25-year-old.

Diego Simeone makes Alex Baena feelings clear amid Spurs interest

Baena’s form has made him an important player for Atletico Madrid, and Diego Simeone has been pleased with his progress. The Argentine recently praised the winger’s ability and the confidence he has gained since winning the World Cup with Spain.

Speaking about Baena, Simeone said: “Baena sees the game differently than others; he’s stronger and more confident since the World Cup.”

Those comments suggest Atletico would be reluctant to lose him midway through the season. FootballTransfers also believes the Spanish club would demand significantly more than the player’s estimated market value if Arsenal attempted to sign him in January.

That could present a problem for Tottenham, who have already been linked with an offer worth around £70 million. Atletico paid Villarreal €42 million (£36.5 million) for Baena in the summer of 2025, and there is currently no indication that they are actively looking to sell.

Spurs’ reported interest comes amid injury problems in the wide areas, with Xavi Simons, Wilson Odobert, Savio and Mykhailo Mudryk all sidelined. Baena would provide Roberto De Zerbi with another attacking option, particularly on the left.

However, Atletico’s reluctance to sell could make any January deal difficult. With Arsenal now reportedly interested as well, Tottenham may face competition for Baena if they decide to make a formal approach.