Santi Cazorla set for Villarreal return

Arsenal playmaker Santi Cazorla could return to Villarreal in the summer transfer window, according to club ambassador Marcos Senna.

The 33-year-old resumed training with the Gunners after an 18-month injury ordeal a couple of weeks ago, but he has not been offered a new contract and is expected to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Villarreal club ambassador Marcos Senna has now moved to reveal that Santi Cazorla will join his former club for pre-season training, getting a chance to earn a contract at Estadio de la Ceramica.

“I would love to confirm it (a permanent transfer),” the Brazilian told reporters. “But at the moment what I’ve said is that there are advanced negotiations between Santi Cazorla and Villarreal for the player to spend pre-season with the club. Cazorla will be a free agent.”

Santi Cazorla has spent last six years at the Emirates, producing 29 goals and 45 assists in 180 competitive outings.

However, the Spaniard was plagued by numerous injuries over the last three campaigns, making mere 23 Premier League appearances during said period.