Arsenal are considering trying to pull off a late deadline-day deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, according to Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk.
Goretzka is out of contract this summer and is set to leave the Bundesliga giants as a free agent. The 30-year-old hasn't been a regular starter under Vincent Kompany, who has often preferred Aleksandar Pavlovic in holding midfield.
Mikel Arteta is often tight-lipped about his club's transfer activity, but he hinted that they would be looking to make one or two signings before the transfer window closes. The Spaniard has just under two hours to seal a deal for Goretzka if he wishes to bring the experienced German to the Emirates.
Leon Goretzka
It's claimed that Arsenal made enquiries for Goretzka and that intermediaries "raised the possibility" of a move before the window slams shut at 7 PM GMT. The Bayern man would be available for a cut-price fee given he only has four months left on his contract.
The North Londoners' interest follows a report suggesting Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali contacted the Premier League leaders about a possible move. The Italian is set to remain at St James' Park but a potential summer exit can't be ruled out.
Arsenal remain top of the table after 24 games and are well stocked in midfield after a busy summer. Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard joined Declan Rice and Mikel Merino at the Emirates.
A potential move for Goretzka could come with Merino's absence in mind after the Spanish midfielder suffered a fractured foot in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United. He is expected to undergo surgery, which likely leaves Arteta without the 29-year-old for the rest of the season.
Goretzka, who reportedly earns £300,000 per week, can play in multiple midfield roles, including defensive andattacking midfield. He has appeared 28 times across competitions this season, posting one goal.
The veteran German boasts extensive experience, having won the Bundesliga six times and the Champions League once. He has earned 67 caps for the Germany national team, and while he might offer Arteta another option on the pitch, he may also bring more leadership to his side.
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