Real Madrid: Which four teams are interested in Isco?

Real Madrid CF midfielder Isco (22) during the match RCD Espanyol against Real Madrid CF, for the round 21 of the Liga Santander, played at RCD Espanyol Stadium on 27th January 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. (Credit: Mikel Trigueros/Urbanandsport / NurPhoto via Getty Images) -- (Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Real Madrid CF midfielder Isco (22) during the match RCD Espanyol against Real Madrid CF, for the round 21 of the Liga Santander, played at RCD Espanyol Stadium on 27th January 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. (Credit: Mikel Trigueros/Urbanandsport / NurPhoto via Getty Images) -- (Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /
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It seems like Isco’s days with Real Madrid are numbered, but which top clubs around Europe could decide to take a flier on the talented Spanish international?

Isco is a former Golden Boy winner and was once one of the most talented rising stars on Real Madrid. While that talent is still there, the Spanish international has found himself on the fringes of the squad due to a blend of injuries, standout play from other midfielders, and poor form.

While Isco made his return to health a few weeks ago, he hasn’t featured in the Real Madrid starting XI regularly. In fact, he’s only made a cameo appearances against Granada and an ill-fated start as a central midfield pivot in an upset loss to Mallorca, in which he was arguably the worst player on the pitch.

The thrilling skills, lethal curled efforts from outside the box, and creative layoffs have been missing from Isco’s game, and it’s gotten to the point where a chance of scenery may be best for both player and team.

According to a recent report from Tuttosport, there are four notable clubs with interest in Isco: Arsenal, Manchester City, Juventus, and Napoli.

It is not a surprise to see that these four clubs are interested. Man City seems like a surprise due to their talent in midfield, but Isco’s quality and playing style could intrigue, Pep Guardiola, who wouldn’t say no to a quality backup option at the right price. After all, he’s benefited greatly from having options on the wing like Riyad Mahrez off the bench.

Arsenal look like the least likely landing spot. They already have to consider Mesut Ozil’s future, have received above-average play from Dani Ceballos on a loan from Real Madrid, and have a couple of young attacking midfielders who need minutes. And I doubt they’d spend money on another attacking-minded player in midfield.

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Napoli could make sense due to the Carlo Ancelotti link and the fact that Isco could fit their beautiful brand of football. The Serie A club were linked to James Rodriguez this summer, but maybe Isco could be an option for them.

As for Juventus, they’ve been the most heavily linked to Isco, and I’d be surprised if he didn’t end up there at this point. If Real do sell Isco this winter, which looks likely at this point, then Juve could be the move. But if they wait until next summer to Isco, then all bets are off as the landscape could look very different in several months.