Ruud van Nistelrooy has admitted that he wants to leave Real Madrid, with Arsenal emerging as a surprise possible destination.
The former Manchester United frontman is struggling to gain first team football at the Bernabeu, not helped by a recent thigh injury that has kept him out of action in recent weeks.
The veteran striker is desperate to reignite his international flame, sensing a final opportunity to earn a place in the Dutch World Cup squad for South Africa.
"I want to play. I have not spoken with [Manuel] Pellegrini but when I am ready I'll talk to him. If I have no minutes, I would have a reason to leave in January," said van Nistelrooy.
"My intention is to play at the World Cup with Holland. If I don't play, that's impossible because [to make the Dutch squad] I have to prove that I can return to my previous level in the coming months."
This has left the door open, with a host of Premier League clubs known to be interested in the experienced striker.
Manchester City and Spurs are just two names in the frame, with Roma also mentioned, but Arsenal have emerged as the surprise front-runners if the papers are to be believed.
A £4 million bid is thought to be enough to secure a January switch for the 33-year-old.
