Arsenal legend urges team to sign Real Madrid star

Arsenal legend Robert Pires has urged his former side to consider a move for Real Madrid's Gareth Bale when the current season comes to a close.

The Wales international has been with the European champions for the past five-and-a-half seasons but they are claims that he could move on after dropping out-of-favour under manager Santiago Solari.

Speaking to Bwin, Pires said that he would like Bale to head to the Emirates Stadium in the summer, though the move may not be welcomed by north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

He said: "There's an assumption that he would go back to Tottenham [Hotspur], but I would encourage Arsenal to open the door to the Emirates for him. I know Tottenham fans would not be happy, but Bale would be very welcome at Arsenal."

Bale is currently being valued at around £85m by Los Blancos and this may prove a major stumbling block for the Gunners, given the board are likely to restrict the budget for the summer.

Emery is likely to be allocated with a budget of just £45m for the forthcoming transfer window but the kitty could be enhanced by the sale of out-of-favour players.