Arsenal Star Santi Cazorla 'Open to La Liga Future' but Rubbishes Atletico Madrid Rumours

Arsenal playmaker Santi Cazorla has admitted to IBTimes UK he is open to a return to La Liga in the future – but claimed reports about a move to Atletico Madrid during the summer were rumours.

The 29-year-old Spanish international moved to the north London club in the summer of 2012 after the Gunners paid Malaga £15m to secure his services.

The Spaniard quickly became a favourite for both manager Arsene Wenger and the supporters, and last March he signed a long-term deal with Arsenal to commit his future to the club until 2017.

However with a number of players in his position, including Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil, Theo Walcott and Alexis Sanchez, a number of reports from Spain during the summer claimed he was considering a return to his homeland, and that Diego Simeone approached him regarding a move to Atletico Madrid.

But when questioned by IBTimes UK about that reports and whether he really is considering a future move to La Liga, Cazorla said: "There were just rumours.

"I already told it during the summer. Nobody told me anything to me. I am at Arsenal and let's see what happens in the future."

"I don't rule out [a future in La Liga]. I have played there most of my career, except during the last three seasons, and a footballer never knows what coming next. But I am open to everything."

Last season, the Spaniard reportedly left the door open to a return to La Liga if Arsenal failed to consistently challenge for trophies, and did not bolster the squad adequately.

However, the Gunners won the FA Cup last season while during the summer, Wenger spent big on a number of stars including Sanchez.

When questioned whether the former Barcelona forward was the kind of player he was asking for, Cazorla said: "Yes. We want top players.

"Alexis has joined us and he adds a lot of things to the squad. He is a top player and this are the kind of player we want at Arsenal.

"But unfortunately we are having many injuries. Alexis is playing well but we lack Mesut Ozil, Wilshere... the team are weakened by the injuries."