Cameroon international Alex Song has been linked with a shock return to Arsenal, only a year after leaving the Emirates for Spanish giants Barcelona.

The 25-year-old midfielder was one of two outstanding performers for the north London club last year (the other being striker Robin van Persie) and his form attracted Barcelona's attention.

Alex Song (C)
Reuters

The Spaniards paid approximately £16.5m but Song has failed to establish himself at the Nou Camp, leading to speculation FROM the Express he could return to Arsene Wenger.

Song has made only 22 appearances, in all competitions, this season with no goals and no assists. By contrast, he made 44 through all of last term, with 13 assists and a goal.

French giants Paris St Germain (PSG) have also been credited with an interest and should have no trouble paying his salary. However, it is understood Song would favour a return to London. This is understandable, given the 2014 FIFA World Cup is now around the corner and Song needs to cement his place at club level.

Arsene Wenger has struggled to find an effective replacement for Song since he left the club, having to rely on ex-Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta to play the defensive role in midfield. The Frenchman does have Abou Diaby but the 26-year-old is notoriously injury-prone.

The Gunners have been linked to a number of other options, most notably Toulouse's Etienne Capoue and Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama, as well as West Ham United's Mohamed Diame. However, for understandable reasons, Wenger may prefer Song.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal and Barcelona can hammer out a transfer agreement. Song is unlikely to be worth as much as the Catalans originally paid for him but the Spaniards will be loath to lose him for much less than they paid.

Wenger's famous insistence on financial prudence will, in that case, be put to the test. But should he need the money, he will likely have it. There are reports the north London club will give their manager £70m to spend in the summer.

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