Xabi Alonso made a request to sign Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi in his first meeting with Real Madrid chiefs, a new report has claimed.
Arsenal have long been viewed as the clear frontrunners for the Spanish international midfielder.
Mail Sport reported back in January that Arsenal had virtually agreed a £51million deal for Zubimendi, but Real Sociedad wanted him to remain at the club until the end of the season.
Reports from Spain earlier this month suggested Real Madrid had made contact with Zubimendi's camp as they considered an attempt to hijack the Gunners move.