Arsenal eye free transfer coup for star who wants Premier League move

Arsenal remain interested in Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, two more sources from Germany have confirmed.

The 31-year-old will leave the Bavarian giants when his contract expires in the summer. Despite being repeatedly told that he is surplus to requirements in recent years, Goretzka has dug his heels in and clawed his way back into the starting lineup of Vincent Kompany.

The Germany international produced another standout performance against Werder Bremen at the weekend and has been widely praised for his professionalism. “No lamenting, no complaining, nothing at all,” Bayern director Max Eberl said after the game.

In January, Bayern and Goretzka formally announced that they would go their separate ways in the summer, but the midfielder already had the opportunity to jump ship midseason.

Atletico Madrid came calling after selling Conor Gallagher to Tottenham, while Arsenal explored a Deadline Day swoop after Mikel Merino suffered a long-term injury. However, Goretzka had already made the conscious decision to see out the season – and his lucrative contract – in Munich.

Arsenal still keen on Goretzka

It has since been claimed that Arsenal remain interested in Goretzka, and this has now been corroborated by BILD and Südwest Presse in Germany. Both outlets assert that Arsenal and Tottenham are still eyeing Goretzka for the summer.

Spurs were briefly linked with him in January, but it was quickly clarified that they were looking to sign him on a free transfer after the season. Yves Bissouma is likely to depart in the summer, while there is uncertainty around loanee Joao Palhinha.

The second report states that AC Milan are interested in Goretzka as well. Previously, it was also reported that Barcelona boss Hansi Flick was keen on reuniting with his former Bayern star.

Goretzka, for his part, has already admitted that he is intrigued by the prospect of heading abroad this summer. Many believe that his physical play style would be ideal for the Premier League, and he seems to share that belief.

“[Leaving Germany] is an option, of course,” he explained in January. “It would be exciting to go abroad at some point in my career. I’ve already considered it twice, but consciously decided against it.

“I know I’m in a comfort zone in Munich. Taking a step outside would also be a step for my personal development. Getting to know something new would enrich my life.

“I want to play for a club with ambitions, a club with a plan, where my qualities are valued. Above all, I want to inspire my teammates and take the team to another level. Football is about winning, and I’ve had that fact hammered into my brain every day for the last eight years [at Bayern].

“There are many people who think that my style of football would be a great fit for England. I won’t rush things. I will listen to everything and consider it carefully. I’m looking forward to the talks that will take place.”

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