Arsenal ‘serious’ about beating Man Utd and Tottenham to free agent signing

Arsenal are expected to be in the frame for the signing of Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka this summer, according to a report.

The Germany international will become a free agent after this season. For years, Bayern have been trying to rid themselves of Goretzka’s hefty wages, but the player repeatedly turned down offers to leave.

Goretzka was determined to fight for his place, and his struggle against the Bayern hierarchy was ultimately successful. Despite being told that he was surplus to requirements, the 30-year-old is a regular starter in the Bundesliga under Vincent Kompany this season.

However, Bayern will not hand him a contract extension. The decision was officially communicated after Goretzka turned down a January move to Atletico Madrid. While he was flattered by the interest, he decided that he wanted to see out the season in Munich.

The battle to sign him on a Bosman in the summer is expected to be epic. Atleti are expected to return for him, while his former Bayern boss Hansi Flick wants to reunite with him at Barcelona. Tottenham have also been linked, while Man Utd hold a long-standing interest.

Arsenal also in the mix for Goretzka

Premier League leaders Arsenal could also be in the mix for the veteran midfielder. Although the Gunners are planning more youth-focused recruitment, Goretzka is seen as a market opportunity.

Indeed, FootballTransfers reported on January Deadline Day that a last-minute move for the German was explored following the injury to Mikel Merino. However, it was too late to get Goretzka to change his mind.

BILD reporter Christian Falk has also confirmed that Arsenal showed a “serious interest” in Goretzka on Monday, and he adds that the Gunners may return for him after this season.

Goretzka has made no secret of the fact that he believes his playstyle is perfect for the Premier League, and he does appear to have the kind of mentality that Mikel Arteta loves in a player.

Whether he would be interested in a move to Arsenal is a different question. Given the number of elite midfield options at Arteta’s disposal, he could struggle to get regular minutes, which is ultimately what he is after.

However, Arsenal may be forced into one or two big sales this summer. They are cutting it close with UEFA’s Squad Cost Ratio rule and will likely have to cash in on someone, perhaps Kai Havertz. Although not a like-for-like replacement, Goretzka could be a cost-effective option.

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