Former Arsenal winger Serge Gnabry has shown his love for the club despite leaving in 2016, claiming he is “always a Gunner”.
The 26-year-old has been linked with a move back to the Emirates in recent weeks, amid uncertainty over his future at current club Bayern Munich.
The Germany international has a deal at the Bundesliga club until 2023, leaving less than 18-months left until he becomes a free agent.
With apparent differences in the early stages of negotiations for a new contract, this could clear the way for a return to Arsenal under a Mikel Arteta side that are starting to thrive.
The Spaniard has got his side ticking as of late, with youngsters stepping up to the plate when they’re needed most.
A run of four wins and one draw in their last five in the league means that the Gunners are second in the form table behind only Liverpool, who have won five of their last five.
It puts the side in pole position to finish in the top four and regain Champions League football, something that may be crucial in attracting some of the best talent in the world.
It’s something that Arteta has insisted his side can still do, saying back in January: “Historically this club has always been targeting the best players in the world and the best players in the world are always interested to come here and I can say that situation hasn't changed.”
Gnabry could be one of those players, with his dwindling contract and an improving side with Champions League ambitions potentially willing to bring him on board.
The versatile forward, who can play anywhere across the front three, has come on leaps and bounds since his Arsenal days.
Since leaving in 2016, he has become a regular in Bavaria, winning three Bundesliga titles, a Champions League, a Club World Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, two German Cups and three German Super Cups.
With his time at the club potentially coming to an end, and the potential door opening at the Emirates, his past love for the club could help in landing him.
Back in 2019, speaking on Pro:Direct Soccers’ YouTube channel about Arsenal, he said, “Always a Gunner,” when asked about a potential return in the future.
He also added: “It [leaving the club] was the hardest decision but in the end, I think it worked out as I wanted to play, but as a club man Arsenal [gestures with his hand held high] top, top.”
Whether a return happens remains to be seen, with Arsenal currently well stocked in the wide positions.
However, with the potential of Champions League football next season and the need for strength in depth and quality, Gnabry could be a big option for the club.
