Arsenal confident of landing Schalke star Goretzka

Bengaluru, December 8: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is closing in on a sensational free transfer for Schalke star midfielder Leon Goretzka.

The German midfielder is out-of-contract next summer, and wants to leave the Bundesliga giants for a new challenge and the whole of Europe is interested in his services along with Arsenal’s fellow Premier League clubs Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United.

However, Arsenal are confident that they have done enough to convince the German international to fend off other suitors and sign for them.

Goretzka is one of the brightest talents in German football, and can play in a range of midfield roles. He is creative, agile and tenacious and has an eye good eye for goals.

Wenger has been watching the Schalke starlet for a number of years, and has sent scouts to keep a close eye on his progress at Schalke.

On a free transfer, it would be one well of a signing by the Gunners if they can sign Goretzka. With Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez both likely to leave next summer on free transfers, they will be in a financial mess and this deal would heal their woes to some extent.

Spanish sides Barcelona and Real Madrid have also registered their interest in the Schalke star but Arsenal believe that the offer of regular first team football would be enough to get them their man.

Arsenal are thought to be willing to give the German a hefty signing-on bonus, along with sizeable wage packet.

The Gunners could lose both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil next year, and will need to replace their top stars and Goretzka, despite not being a direct replacement of either, would be a great addition.

Wenger will be able to use the money saved from Goretzka to splash the cash on the other positions.