Arsenal 'have made contact with Madrid regarding possible move for Militao'

Arsenal have made contact with Real Madrid regarding centre-back Eder Militao, according to reports in Spain.

The 22-year-old centre back arrived at the Bernabeu last summer in a £44million move from Porto, but has played just 13 games all season.

The Brazilian is behind established centre-backs Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos in Zinedine Zidane's pecking order, but a report in Spanish outlet Don Balon claims Arsenal are preparing to offer Militao an escape route.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is keen to rebuild Arsenal's defence and reportedly views Militao as a possible reinforcement for the likes of Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis.

But Arsenal are likely to face competition for his signature from Manchester City, who have also reportedly been in touch with Madrid, while Tottenham were also interested in January.

Madrid captain Ramos is said to be unhappy with Militao's contribution so far in his Bernabeu career, but the Brazilian has often been forced to play out of position as full-back cover.

Despite making just seven La Liga starts this season, Madrid are keen to make a profit on him and allegedly told Spurs boss Jose Mourinho they could have him for £70million in January.

Mourinho is reportedly considering his options for replacements for Jan Vertonghen, who is out of contract in the summer.

But any move for Militao from Tottenham's north London rivals would see a second successive summer of business between Arsenal and Real Madrid, with midfielder Dani Ceballos currently on loan at the Emirates Stadium.