What's the story?
Arsenal legend Robert Pires believes that the Gunners should make a move for Real Madrid star Gareth Bale despite his association with North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The Invincible believes that the forward's addition to the team would only make them stronger and that he would be "very welcome at Arsenal".
In case you didn't know...
Bale's future with Los Blancos looks more and more uncertain as the Welshman continues to be at the centre of criticism for the club's disappointing campaign.
The 29-year-old has won four Champions League titles and one LaLiga crown during his time at the Bernabeu so far but his form, which has been marred by injury, has been heavily questioned over the years.
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's departure last summer and the subsequent freedoms, the forward has scored only 13 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid so far this season.
Many believe that Bale has become a bit of a scapegoat with the Spanish outfit, with his teammates also suggesting that he still does not get along with the squad.
Rumours of an exit has been swirling around the forward with clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United reported to be heavily interested in signing for his services.
The heart of the matter
Amid Bale's career limbo at Real Madrid, Pires has urged Arsenal to use the opportunity and bring the Welshman to the Emirates.
Speaking in an interview with BWIN, he said, "I think there’s a good chance Gareth Bale might be playing his last season at Real Madrid."
"He is having a very tough time on and off the pitch at the moment, and there are a lot of questions about how settled he is in the dressing room and how appreciated he is by the fans."
"You can see that Bale is an unhappy player at the moment. I think coming back to the Premier League is the most logical step for Gareth Bale."
"There’s an assumption that he would go back to Tottenham, but I would encourage Arsenal to open the door to the Emirates for him."
"I know Tottenham fans would not be happy, but Bale would be very welcome at Arsenal. I hope the club tries to see if it is an option this summer."
What's next?
Both Arsenal and Real Madrid have derbies against Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona tomorrow night.