According to reports in the Telegraph, Arsenal are one of three sides interested in signing Real Madrid forward Denis Cheryshev - who is eager for regular first-team action and is seeking the exit door at the Santiago Bernabeú.
The 24-year-old, who has developed steadily from the youth ranks in Madrid since July of 2006, was promoted from the Castilla team two seasons ago into the first-team. However at the time, the Los Blancos were stacked to the brim full with plenty of attack-minded players who were all above the pecking order within the ranks when compared to the Russian winger.
No space to fit him in - loans did him a world of good
So as a result, he was loaned out to fellow La Liga clubs Sevilla and Villarreal - where he's done his reputation no harm at all with consistent displays going forward, which emphasise the fact he needs to be playing for a club where his future is certain.
Fast forward to the current day, and his future has not yet been resolved. Liverpool and the aforementioned Villarreal, the latter of which loaned him last term, are both interested in his signature and for good reason to.
Seven goals, ten assists, 34 key passes and 43 chances created in all competitions speak volumes for his obvious talent but what remains to be seen, is whether or not Arsenal will try and pursue him under the noses of the interested parties.
What would he bring to the Gunners?
Although on paper, it may seem like a surprising deal, he'd be affordable but not exactly cheap - with Madrid's asking price being in the region of £15million pounds for his services on a permanent transfer. He's good, no questions about it, but with five or six other players who could easily slot into his position, how would he fare?
The left-sided midfielder adds a bit of versatility, which Arséne Wenger admittedly loves to see in a player. Predominantly a left-winger, he can also play on the right-hand side or as a left/right midfielder. Sharp both on and off-the-ball, boasts a fair bit of pace about him, the Spanish citizen has the ability to seek out team-mates in space with seeming ease, which is especially exciting to see for a creative-minded talent.
Competition for places has never been harder in north London, and although he could offer plenty if utilised, questions will be asked as to whether he'd make the switch to Arsenal with other European sides knocking on the door.