Arsenal have contacted Real Madrid regarding a sensational move for Gareth Bale, according to Diario Gol.

What's the story?

Bale has been regularly linked with a return to the Premier League, but not many would have included Arsenal in the list of potential suitors.

The Wales international developed his game at Tottenham Hotspur, where he spent six years of his career before moving to the Bernabeu in 2013.

Manchester United and Bale’s former club have been touted before as potential suitors, but according to Diario Gol, Arsenal have made contact.

The Spanish publication, though, has stated that Bale will not move to the Gunners as he would regard it as a step down.

Is it serious?

At this stage of the season when clubs begin assessing their transfer plans, outlandish rumours filter through.

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This report in the Spanish press seems hard to believe; not because Arsenal would not want a player of Bale's calibre, but the suggestion that they think that they had a chance.

Arsene Wenger's side are struggling to maintain their stature among the elite Premier League clubs as they look on course to finish the campaign outside of the top four for the second consecutive season.

Bale is used to regular success having won 10 trophies in Madrid, and even though injuries have prevented him from being consistent, the attacker can still provide at the elite level.

Arsenal have splashed the cash on big names in the past, but Los Blancos are unlikely to let the 28-year-old leave on the cheap.