Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil has been rumoured to be a target for Barcelona as a potential replacement for Paris Saint-Germain-bound Neymar.

But given the differences in playing style and contrasting preferred roles on the pitch, the Metro’s suggestion that the German international and former Real Madrid Galatico could be on his way to the Nou Camp is misguided.

Neymar has operated as a left-sided, inside forward for Barcelona, given freedom to cut inside on his stronger right foot. Ozil, however, is left-footed, operates as the central playmaker, and seldom dribbles in possession.

The latter is a creator, not a goalscorer, who goes extreme lengths to make assists when the majority are screaming for him to get a shot at goal in games. Ozil would more be a replacement, albeit a lesser one, to Andres Iniesta.

He’s not dynamic on the ball to take on his opposition from anywhere on the pitch, and is instead the one threading balls through defences and dictating the tempo.

Ozil enjoyed a prolific season with Arsenal, scoring and creating 17 goals in 33 Premier League games. But the 28-year-old wouldn’t come close to matching Neymar’s 24-goal contribution in 30 games. The Brazilian netted nearly twice the amount of Ozil in less matches.

With only 12 months left on his deal, the Metro alleged that Barcelona might consider the gamble as he won’t break the bank. But a club of the stature of the Catalans’ will want assurances that players brought in will be long-lasting. I can’t see Ozil going anywhere as a result.