Emirates Stadium side chase World Cup winner.
Arsenal have been encouraged to make a move for Schalke captain Benedikt Howedes according to the Metro.
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The 27 year old defender, who can play at full-back or in a central defensive role, has a very affordable £12.6m release clause and one that the Schalke management appear to suggest is likely to be triggered.
‘It’s no secret that Benedikt Höwedes has the ability to get through an exit clause in his contract,’ general manager Horst Heldt has stated.
‘He has not yet decided, but he will do it safely in a timely manner.’
The 27 year old played a key role in Joachim Low’s 2014 World Cup triumph and is an experienced campaigner who could offer Arsene Wenger added strength in depth across his back-line.
Howedes has represented Schalke since the age of 13 and could well be ready for a fresh challenge and the presence of national team colleagues Mesut Ozil, Per Mertesacker and Lukas Podolski may act as further motivation to complete a move to join Arsenal