Arsenal have entered in talks to sign Paris Saint-Germain outcast Julian Draxler, either in January or on a free transfer in the summer.
According to 90 Min, Arsenal have finally initiated their pursuit of Julian Draxler. The Paris Saint-Germain playmaker is now being identified as a top target for the club, whose priority is to offer the player a pre-contract that could see him join Emirates for a free transfer in the summer.
However, the Gunners are also open to a January transfer as Mikel Arteta looks to add an immediate solution in the number ten position. As such, a move for Draxler in this window could hinge on the future of Mesut Ozil, with Arsenal keen on offloading the star playmaker this month.
Although Ozil himself has stated in the past that he has no desire to prematurely leave Arsenal before end of his contract, he has recently been linked with a move to Turkey. Fenerbahce, in particular, have emerged as a potential suitor for the former Real Madrid superstar, whose departure could create a void in the creative department.
For Arsenal, it could be a blessing in disguise as Ozil’s mammoth wages have crippled the club financially. His January departure, in that regard, is set to serve as a boost, allowing them to fund moves for their targets in this ongoing winter transfer window.
The north London giants have been linked with multiple players as potential replacements for Ozil, including Norwich City’s star attacker Emiliano Buendia. However, Draxler of PSG has emerged as a leading option for multiple reasons.
The fact that the German’s contract expires at the end of the season, makes him the most appealing target for Arteta. It means Arsenal could secure his services of a cut-price or even for free if they wait till the summer. And unlike Buendia, the Draxler has a lot of experience at the highest level of football. He has notably made over 150 competitive appearances for PSG.
From a sporting perspective, Draxler can offer immediate competition for young Emile Smith Rowe in the number ten position. In addition, the fact that the 27-year-old as a wide attacker could provide further tactical options at the disposal of Arteta. It could be quite useful for the Spaniard, especially following the disappointing performances from the likes of Willian, Nicolas Pepe and Reiss Nelson this season.