Arsenal and Manchester City on Alert as Real Madrid Star Ready for Move - Report

Iker Casillas' agents have contacted Arsenal and Manchester City over a possible transfer for the stopper from Real Madrid in January, according to the Mirror.

The goalkeeper has been warming the bench in recent weeks, something which may affect his selection for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The player is willing to make a transfer elsewhere so as to get more game time under his belt.

Arsenal and City were believed to be interested in the stopper last summer and his agents have sent the clubs an intimation telling them about the 32-year-old's intentions.

Both clubs may be interested in giving the Spaniard a chance, with City currently more distressed at the back with Joe Hart out of form and Costel Pantilimon standing in for the City number one during his absence. The Romania international did not look as assured in their 6-3 win over Arsenal and Manuel Pellegrini may be looking to put a bid in for the Spain Captain to strengthen his backline which has been leaking goals away from home by the dozen.

Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger has seen the return of a reinvigorated Wojciech Szczesny, who has been a rock in front of goal for the Gunners this season. The Pole has made some crucial saves and has deservedly held the number one spot for the Gunners.

However, their backup keepers Lukasz Fabianski and Emiliano Viviano are still under scrutiny and Wenger may be forced to consider the option of bringing Casillas on a short-term deal should Szczesny fall out of his good books. The Pole was relegated to the bench last season after a series of poor performances and the 23-year-old will be wary of a similar incident or fear losing his place to the Spaniard.

Casillas' arrival at Arsenal can have a bigger effect at the Emirates, where he can bring in some much needed experience and rub on the winning mentality he has developed following his achievements with Spain and Real Madrid.