Schalke are determined not to let Leon Goretzka leave for Arsenal in January, according to reports.
So why is that a good thing for Arsenal? Read on to find out…
The German’s contract expires at the end of the season, and a number of top clubs have been linked to his signature, including Barcelona. The Mirror wrote earlier this week that Arsenal have Goretzka as their number one transfer target to bolster their midfield, the first recommendation of their new Super Scout, apparently.
Considering how Elneny, Coquelin and Wilshere performed in midweek against FC Köln, midfield seems like a pretty key area for the Gunners to address in January.
That sounds like an easier task than outbidding Barcelona
However, according to reports in Spain from Merca Futbol, a move for Goretzka won’t happen in the new year.
They write that Schalke aren’t willing to let the midfielder go in the winter window, and have made this clear to all parties concerned. The club intend to stick by that resolution even if it means losing the 22-year-old for free at the end of the season.
Honestly, I think that suits Arsenal a lot better.
If the midfielder ends up moving on in January, the Gunners would have to enter a bidding war with whichever teams were interested.
If he leaves in the summer instead, Wenger only has to convince Goretzka himself to join (and agree wages, of course).
To me, that sounds like an easier task than outbidding Barcelona.