Arsenal want to use Mesut Ozil in a deal for Real Madrid outcast Isco in January, claims The Independent.
Ozil is out of favour at Arsenal under Unai Emery and the Gunners are willing to let the German go less than 12 months after handing him a lucrative long-term deal.
The Gunners are aware they will struggle to command a fee for the 30-year-old due to his reported £300,000-a-week wages and are even considering loan options.
However, Arsenal are now eyeing an audacious January move for Isco and hope to send Ozil back to Madrid as part of the deal.
Isco has endured a disappointing campaign for Madrid and the reigning European champions are reportedly willing to sell the Spain international to help fund a squad overhaul.
Chelsea and Manchester City have been heavily linked with a move for the 26-year-old but now Arsenal have entered the race, though it remains to be seen whether Madrid want Ozil back.
The former Germany international arguably produced the best football of his club career during a three-year stint at Madrid were he forged a remarkable understanding with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Since joining Arsenal in the summer of 2013, only Christian Eriksen (44) has registered more Premier League assists than Ozil (43).
