Further down the pitch, Arsenal need to decide on a No 6 for the future. Thomas Partey, who turns 32 in the summer, and Jorginho, 33, are both into the final six months of their contracts. While Declan Rice can play as a No 6, his talents are better utilised as the left No 8 in Mikel Arteta’s system.

Real Madrid, by all accounts, have made a decision on their January pursuit of Trent Alexander-Arnold, while speculation continues to surround the Liverpool icon.

Real Madrid have completed an agreement with Trent Alexander-Arnold that will see the Liverpool right-back depart Anfield for the Bernabeu in the summer as a free agent while a significant January signing is planned.