Spain forward Jose Antonio Reyes has said he hopes to clear a move to Real Madrid before Arsenal play their Champions League third qualifying round match against Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday.
The nine-times European champions have said they are only interested in signing players who would be available for all competitions. If Reyes played in Tuesday's first leg in Zagreb he would be ineligible for Real in Europe next season.
"The manager (Arsene Wenger) hasn't said anything to me and I don't know if I am going to play or not. I hope I don't or that everything will be resolved before then," Reyes was quoted as telling sports daily Marca today. "Obviously, if I do, it will make a move to Real a lot more difficult. But if I have to play, I will play."
Real have made no secret of their interest in the player, who cost Arsenal £20million in January 2004, though sports director Predrag Mijatovic said on Wednesday he was not an immediate priority for them.
Despite denying reports a week ago that he wanted a move back to Spain, Reyes went on to add: "I know the people (at Arsenal) want me and the fans are with me but I haven't adapted to the life there.
"I miss Spain and I have a unique opportunity to return with what Real are offering. Everyone has to understand I can't let this chance slip away. Real Madrid are unique. I don't know what is happening but I am a little unsettled by all the rumours."