Arsenal Transfer Report: Why Santi Cazorla Is Worth Breaking the Bank for

Despite the fact that the Robin van Persie transfer saga looks far from nearing its conclusion, it was reported yesterday by the Daily Mail that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has made a splash for Malaga winger Santi Cazorla, agreeing to terms with the player over a possible move.

The price quoted is an eye-opening $15.6 million, a rather steep figure considering the player's age, club's desire to sell and the player's desire to move.

Make no mistake, though. Cazorla is a world-class talent, and would go some way towards softening the blow that van Persie's departure would cause.

Despite perhaps feeling most comfortable playing on either wing, the ambidextrous Cazorla is also capable of playing through the middle in a more advanced position, possibly behind the sole striker.

He is also a player capable of changing a game with one spell-binding run.

Last season, the Spaniard played in 34 games for La Liga side Malaga, scoring an impressive nine goals, four of which were free-kicks.

Before moving to Malaga, Cazorla had spent most of his time at Spanish side Villarreal, during which he forced his way into the international team. He has since appeared 45 times and scored six times for the country.

The only possible doubt that Arsenal fans could have over the move would be the player's height, or lack thereof.

However, despite standing at only 5"6, Cazorla has trickery and speed in abundance. If the transition of Manchester City's David Silva to the English game is anything to go by, it shouldn't be too much of a worry.

The 27-year-old has long been a target for Wenger, with the player linked with a move to the club last summer.

With Robin van Persie having cited the club's lack of ambition as reason for demanding a move elsewhere, the transfer would certainly draw into question his comments.

Indeed, with Arsenal having already signed Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud this current transfer window, the Dutchman can have little reason to complain.

Are you watching, Robin?