Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla ‘wanted by former club Villarreal’ — if he can prove his fitness
Spaniard has been sidelined for 18 months and has been forced to undergo 11 operations due to problem with Achilles' tendon
VILLARREAL are considering a move for Santi Cazorla if he can prove his fitness, according to reports in Spain.
The Arsenal midfielder, 33, has been sidelined for 18 months and forced to undergo 11 operations due to serious issues with his Achilles' tendon.
However, he insists his injury problems are behind him and he is ready to begin playing again.
And report that Cazorla has been told by Villarreal owner Fernando Roig that the doors at El Madrigal are open to him, should he prove he is on the mend.
The Spaniard's contract at the Emirates runs out this summer but he is adamant he only wants to return to the field if he is 100 per cent fit and able to play at the highest level.
Cazorla made his name at Villarreal and Roig feels that the playmaker's departure was the toughest to swallow during his time at the club.
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However, the decision was taken out of their hands due to the club's dire financial situation.
Cazorla started his career at Villarreal before spending a season Recreativo where he was named Player of the Year and returned to El Madrigal.
In 2011, he joined Malaga despite interest from Arsenal — and eventually made the move to the Emirates 12 months later.
Villarreal are sixth in La Liga and likely to be playing Europa League football next term.