Transfer Talk: Where next for free agent Isco?

Isco is set to leave Real Madrid when his contract runs out this month, ending a nine-year spell in the Spanish capital.

The playmaker joined Los Blancos from Malaga in 2013 and has found the net 53 times in 353 appearances but is part of a summer clearout that includes Gareth Bale and Marcelo.

We take a look at where Isco, 30, could be heading next after he confirmed his departure.

Going in for the Kyl

Isco recently took to Instagram to post a farewell to Madrid fans and aim a cheeky swipe at Kylian Mbappe, who rejected a move to the Spanish and European champions.

He said: "I was in Malaga and I knew I had to go. I got engaged to another team. But Real Madrid knocked on my door and Real Madrid cannot and should not be told no, although there are always exceptions.

"Nine years later, my time at the club that has made it possible for me to fulfil all the dreams I had when I was little comes to an end.

"Apart from fulfilling dreams, winning more titles than I had imagined, playing with the greatest, meeting incredible people, I have had a f***ing fun time and they can't take my dancing out of me."

After claiming that "there are always exceptions" to Madrid’s powerful call, he used a turtle emoji in reference to Mbappe and his decision to remain at PSG.

Sevilla

Isco has been linked with a move to Sevilla, who finished fourth to secure Champions League football next season.

The prospect of playing in Europe's elite competition will likely be a major factor in his decision and a move to a fellow La Liga outfit would remove the prospect of having to adapt to a new league.

Sevilla currently lack attacking midfield options in their squad with 34-year-old duo Papu Gomez and Ivan Rakitic filling this role, while Erik Lamela and Suso have been plagued with injuries.

Isco would also provide competition for the likes of wingers Lucas Ocampos and Jesus Corona as he has occasionally been deployed on the right flank by Los Blancos.

Sevilla’s transfer budget cannot be compared to top English sides and a free transfer for a player of Isco’s profile makes sense for them, although they would have to decide if they want to add the 30-year-old to an already ageing squad.

Real Betis

Real Betis are one of the front-runners in the race to secure Isco’s services, providing competition for Sevilla.

They finished fifth last season and will not be able to offer Champions League football, having qualified for Europe's second-tier competition.

Betis regularly deploy two defensively-minded players in a midfield five and would provide competition for the likes of Nabil Fekir, Sergio Canales and Juanmi, who all play in more offensive roles behind the striker.

Arsenal

A move to the Premier League may be on the cards for Isco as Arsenal have been eyeing a swoop.

The Gunners were beaten to a top-four finish by bitter rivals Spurs, meaning they have also missed out on the extra lump of revenue received for participating in the Champions League.

Arsenal will need to make additions to their squad to keep up with their competition and a move for Isco would add experience to their young side.

Chelsea

Chelsea could also be in the market for another attacking option.

The Blues were linked with a £47million move for Isco in 2020 and securing him on a free would allow them to spend precious money adding to a threadbare defensive unit.

Chelsea's need to keep up with powerhouses Manchester City and Liverpool means they must make sensible additions to their squad as they aim for titles next season.

A move for Isco may seem a risk considering his lack of game time and injuries but if he is able to return to top form, it will be a risk worth taking.