Real Madrid might have a decision to make over the futures of several first-team stars this summer. A topsy-turvy campaign has raised doubts about many of the current members of Alvaro Arbeloa's squad continuing at the Estadio Bernabeu next season.
One of them could be Brahim Diaz who has been in and out of the starting lineup this season. The Moroccan has started just three of 14 La Liga games, posting four assists.
The 26-year-old spent January with Morocco's national team at the African Cup of Nations and finished as the tournament's Golden Boot winner. But he has been unable to claim a regular starting berth in the Madrid team.
Madrid rejected Arsenal deadline day offer
Brahim will have a year left on his contract in the summer, which means the club will need to decide whether to cash in on the former AC Milan attacker. He could be set to move to the Premier League
Africa Foot (via Football Transfers) reports that Arsenal made a deadline day attempt to sign Brahim as they looked to replace the injured Mikel Merino. Madrid responded with a "firm rejection," but he could be back on the Gunners' radar in the summer.
Former Los Blancos youngster Martin Odegaard's form has concerned the Premier League leaders. There are suggestions that the Norweigan who is the captain of Mikel Arteta's side might depart.
Brahim has spent time in England before when he rose through Manchester City's youth ranks before joining Madrid in 2019. That means Arteta knows him from his time assisting Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.
Arbeloa on Brahim's role in his team
Arbeloa might not even be in charge when the summer transfer window opens as he was appointed as caretaker manager in early January. The Spaniard was asked about the Moroccan ahead of his side's clash with Valencia (via Madrid Universal):
"Brahim Diaz has the ability to play in the heart of the midfield, between the lines, and coordinate with his teammates. He is a highly talented player, his role depends on the match's requirements. He can be useful in different positions and in various situations."
Brahim might feel he has a chance to prove his worth amid Jude Bellingham's injury which is likely to rule him out for the next two weeks or more. But he is one of several options Arbeloa can turn to as Arda Guler and Dani Ceballos are also waiting in the wings.