Mikel Arteta has already admitted that Arsenal need to bolster their attacking options come the summer transfer window and may have identified an unlikely target in the form of Real Madrid's Eden Hazard.
The Belgium international has failed to make the grade at the Santiago Bernabeu since his move from Chelsea in 2019, with much of his time in the Spanish capital marred by persistent injuries. It has been a far cry from his days at Stamford Bridge where he established himself as one of the most potent attackers in the Premier League.
It was that kind of form for the Blues that prompted Los Blancos to fork out an initial £89million for the forward in a deal that has risen well beyond the £100m mark. Six goals in 65 appearances later and Hazard's reputation has taken significant damage, but not enough to veer Arsenal off the scent it would seem.
According to Foot Mercato, the Gunners have already held talks with Hazard's representatives earlier this week to feel out the possibility of striking a deal. In terms of structure, Arsenal's ideal scenario would be a loan for the 31-year-old with an option to buy.
Some sections of the Emirates faithful may be surprised to read of their club's interest, especially given Hazard's form this term. The ex-Chelsea star has managed a feeble return of just one goal in 23 appearances across all competitions.
Should he call time on his flatlining career in Spain, there will be few pleas for him to stay from the Madrid fanbase who have long deemed Hazard surplus to requirements. Last season saw the player issue an apology for his response to their elimination from the Champions League.
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Madrid were dumped out of the competition by his old side Chelsea no less, leading to Hazard being caught on camera joking with then-Blues Kurt Zouma. "I am sorry. I have read lots of opinions about me and it was not my intention to offend Real fans," he explained. "It has always been my dream to play for Real Madrid and I came here to win."
Hazard would not be the first ageing Chelsea star to eventually ply his trade in the red half of North London. Petr Cech, David Luiz and Willian have all donned the Arsenal shirt in recent seasons, though none have managed to recreate the kind of success they enjoyed at the Bridge.
The Belgian's arrival could potentially harm the development of younger attackers already at the club, especially if he takes a place in the line-up that would have otherwise gone to the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli or Emile Smith Rowe.
