Arsenal are reportedly preparing for a big signing this summer. Reports say the North London club are following a top German star. Leon Goretzka is said to be open to a move. The midfielder wants to test himself in the Premier League when his current contract comes to an end.
The Pursuit of Leon Goretzka by Arsenal
Arsenal launched a late pursuit for Leon Goretzka in the winter transfer window after Mikel Merino suffered a serious injury. They reportedly looked into a deadline day deal to bring the midfielder to London straight away.
However, the Bayern midfielder chose to stay in Germany until the end of the season. He wanted to finish his eight-year tenure with more trophies, as Bayern are chasing a historic treble under Vincent Kompany. “As much as I am honoured by the interest from international top clubs, I have made a clear decision for myself to remain at FC Bayern until the end of the season,” – Said Leon Goretzka on his January stance.
As per reports, The Gunners have opened early talks to revisit his transfer situation before the summer transfer window opens. A Premier League move seems realistic, with the German midfielder set to become a free agent in June. He also turned down an offer from Atletico Madrid earlier, as he prefers a move to English football.
🚨 Arsenal are reportedly ahead of Tottenham in the race to sign Leon Goretzka on a free transfer this summer.
The Gunners see him as a versatile, physical box-to-box option to support Declan Rice.
[Football Insider] pic.twitter.com/Ekxj8KIeU9
— Transfer Hub (@TRANSFER_HUB1) February 18, 2026
The transfer battle for Leon Goretzka
Arsenal and Tottenham are locked in a significant battle to sign the experienced midfielder. Both teams view him as a cost-effective way to add leadership and quality to their squads. Tottenham, in particular, want experienced players to raise the level of the team quickly. However, they could find it hard to convince him without Champions League football next season.
As per reports, Arsenal have the edge in the race. They can offer Champions League football and a clear long-term project. Money could still be an issue. The player earns more than €10 million per year. His weekly wage is said to be around £298,000. Any club that signs him would need to adjust their wage structure carefully.
There have also been links to Manchester United. Some reports claimed that Leon Goretzka had held talks with the club. However, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that despite interests, “nothing is pre-agreed or signed” with Man United yet. Other clubs mentioned in the rumours include AC Milan, Napoli, and Bayer Leverkusen.
🚨 Bayer Leverkusen want to sign midfielder Leon Goretzka from Bayern Munich this summer, but the 31-year-old would prefer a move to England and the Premier League, with Arsenal showing interest.
The German international has announced he is leaving Bayern in June when his… pic.twitter.com/Egk5nvlS5k
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 19, 2026
Why Leon Goretzka is a world-class fit for Arsenal
Leon Goretzka is widely seen as a world-class talent due to his incredible achievements and technical consistency. During his time in Bavaria, he has won 15 trophies. These include the Champions League and six Bundesliga titles. One key stat stands out: his 93% passing accuracy. It shows how well he controls the tempo from deep positions.
Goretzka brings a rare mix of strength and skill. He works hard in defense but also makes smart late runs into the box. He is strong in the air and takes powerful shots from distance.
MIkel Arteta could use his physical presence and box-to-box energy to build a strong partnership with Declan Rice. His experience would also help the younger players in the squad. Goretzka’s winning mindset and leadership could make him an important figure in the dressing room.
Still, he may need to accept a smaller role. Rice and Zubimendi look set in central midfield, while Odegaard and Eze compete further forward. Arteta could use Goretzka as an impact substitute and a key rotation option.
Final thoughts on the potential transfer
Arsenal look set to lead the race for Leon Goretzka as he gets ready for a new step in his career. The midfielder wants to play in the Premier League, and his strong technical skills make him a great fit. If Arsenal can sign such an experienced winner on a free transfer, it would be a huge boost for the North London club.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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