Arsenal will have been boosted by Schalke star Julian Draxler‘s agent, Roger Witmann, denying he is in Italy to negotiate a deal with Juventus, reports the Daily Star.
The 21-year-old’s representative was spotted in the country on Thursday, but has made it clear that any enquiries in to the youngster’s future will have to be directed to Schalke.
With Gunners boss Arsene Wenger keen to add the wonderkid to his squad this summer this will be a major boost to the 65-year-old’s transfer plans.
“I’m in Italy,” Witmann said, “but I don’t know anything about Julian Draxler and a move to Juventus.
“He plays for Schalke 04, you’d have to ask them, these are just rumours.”
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However, signing the Germany international may not be the best road for the French tactician to take. There is already a glut of attacking midfielders at the club, and adding to the area is unlikely to help them challenge Chelsea for the Premier League title next time round.
Wenger already has Mesut Ozil, Santi Cazorla, Jack Wilshere, and Tomas Rosicky among others who can play in the no. 10 role. Meanwhile, it is doubtful whether Draxler would be an improvement on any of this group, especially former Real Madrid ace and World Cup winner Ozil.
Last season Draxler struggled with injuries and only managed two goals and two assists in 19 games for Schalke. This continues a downturn that has been going on since the 2012/13 campaign in which he peaked with ten goals and three assists. It may be wise for the North Londoners to wait and see if the youngster lives up to his potential before risking a mooted [Metro] £30 million bid for him.