Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is closing in on a free transfer for Schalke star Leon Goretzka.
The German midfielder is out-of-contract next summer, and wants to leave for a new challenge.
A number of Europe’s top clubs have looked at snapping the 22-year-old up, including Manchester United and City.
But the Gunners are confident they have won the race for his signature, in a major coup for Wenger’s men.
Goretzka is one of the brightest talents in German football, and can play in a number of positions across the midfield.
Wenger has been watching him for a number of years, and has sent scouts to keep an eye on his progress.
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Barcelona along with Real Madrid are also understood to have shown an interest in the past.
Arsenal are thought to be willing to give him a hefty signing-on bonus, along with sizeable wage packet.
The Gunners could lose both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil next year, and will need to replace their top stars.
Wenger can then use the money saved from Goretzka to splash the cash elsewhere next summer.
He came through the academy at Bochum before joining Schalke for £3m on a five-year professional deal.
The Confederations Cup winner has gone on to score 14 goals in 101 Bundesliga appearances for the club.
