Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal has admitted he would be open to signing for Athletic Bilbao at some point in the future.
The full-back grew up in the Basque country and has been linked with a switch to the La Liga outfit in recent weeks.
Monreal, 30, told Radio Euskadi: “I have great affection for Athletic but I think only about the present, not what could happen in the future.
"Although I am keeping all my options open. I have some good friends already at the club such as Raul Garcia”.
Monreal is unlikely to leave Arsenal this season having established himself as the Gunners' first-choice left-back.
He has started 10 Premier League games this term, being absent for only the 4-1 win at Sunderland due to a thigh strain.
The Spaniard moved to the Emirates for around £8million in 2013 and has gone on to make 140 appearances for the north Londoners.
In pictures: Arsenal 1-1 Tottenham
Monreal has also become Spain's first-choice left-back recently due an injury sustained by Barcelona's Jordi Alba.
Julen Lopetegui's side take on Macedonia in a World Cup qualifier in Granada this evening.