Leon Goretzka’s potential transfer to Arsenal has been dealt a big blow with the German reportedly preferring Barcelona to the Gunners.
The 22-year-old plays as an attacking midfielder, in the same position as Mesut Ozil, and would be seen as an ideal replacement for his fellow countryman.
Like Ozil, Goretzka’s contract runs out in the summer and so is able to talk to other clubs when the January transfer window opens.
However, the Schalke man has had interest from other clubs such as Manchester City, Juventus and Bayern Munich.
In addition, it has been said that Catalan giants Barcelona is his preferred destination, with Goretzka reportedly already holding talks with Ernesto Valverde.
It has been claimed that “Goretzka has made it clear he wants to move to the Nou Camp when his deal is up.” (via The Mirror):
Meanwhile, Ozil’s contract at the Emirates runs out in the summer and Arsene Wenger is yet to find a replacement, with it looking increasingly likely every day that the 29-year-old will leave.
Barcelona have reportedly seen Ozil as a transfer target as well as Goretzka, while Arsenal have been linked with a move for Julian Draxler from PSG.
However, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool have also been linked with a transfer for the 24-year-old German.
So Wenger will have to continue his search for a replacement if Ozil is to leave, and Leon Goretzka is not looking like a possible target.
