It’s surprising, given Arsenal’s clear need for a striker, that the Gunners’ have been most strongly linked to yet another talented creative midfielder. The man in question is Schalke 04’s Julian Draxler, who was linked to Arsenal in the summer and hasn’t managed to shake off the conjunction in the intervening months.
Yes, this is a little odd. The Gunners can already call upon the likes of Santi Cazorla, Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey, Tomas Rosicky, Mikel Arteta and plenty of others. It’s not like the club has a desperate need for another midfielder in this mould. But wouldn’t it be quintessential Arsene Wenger if he were to defy expectations and make a signing of this kind?
Isn’t that exactly what he did when he signed Mesut Ozil?
Yes, Olivier Giroud could use some help upfront. Arsene Wenger should probably prioritise signing a striker. But if the rumours concerning Julian Draxler are true, then it’s not like anybody would be disappointed. The German youngster is the real deal, after all.
The 20-year-old has a £40m release clause and has looked worth every penny in recent months. Whilst he’s a technically gifted individual, who’s very comfortable on the ball and can pass quickly and accurately, his goal-scoring form is what’s most impressive. Last season he found the back of the net 13 times and he’s already scored 5 times this year.
That’s a great return for a central midfielder, especially one that’s so young. It’s little wonder that clubs like Arsenal have been chasing him.
The Metro recently ran some quotes from Schalke’s general manager Horst Heldt, suggesting that the rumours may have some truth to them. Check them out: “We continue to hope that Julian remains. But there are factors that we can not influence”.
Could one of those factors be an interest from Arsene Wenger? A man who is known for his ability to cultivate young talent.
Whether Arsenal will be willing to cough up £40m remains to be seen. I’m sure Arsene Wenger would prefer to hash out a cheaper deal, if at all possible. Either way, it’ll be fascinating to see how this one turns out.
Let’s just hope that Wenger’s on the hunt for a striker too.
What’s your take? Should the Gunners snap up this talented, but expensive German midfielder?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.
Get him in world class talent can become a better player than ozil