According to Foot Mercato, Arsenal are among the clubs keen on securing the services of Julian Draxler. The PSG attacker has been primarily courted by Hertha Berlin, who are looking to bring him back to the Bundesliga. However, the German outfit could face stiff competition from the Gunners in the pursuit of Draxler, whose contract runs out in 2021.
Julian Draxler’s situation at PSG
Draxler has not been able to live up to his full potential after making a big-money switch to PSG in 2017. The playmaker has struggled with a lack of game-time, having managed to muster over 2,000 minutes of league football in a season only once during his ongoing three-year spell at the club.
The presence of star attackers like Neymar, Angel Di Maria and even Marco Verratti made it difficult for Draxler to establish himself as a first-team regular for the French champions. His importance in the side was further reduced last summer when PSG signed Pablo Sarabia and Ander Herrera.
And with the arrival of Leonardo Araujo as the new sporting director, Draxler’s future at the club remains uncertain. His contract expires at the end of next season, and therefore, a move away from the French capital seems the likely option.
What can he add to the table?
Draxler is a versatile playmaker. Unlike his compatriot Mesut Ozil, the German international can feature in a variety of roles in the final third. Even though he is most effective in the number ten slot, he has the experience of playing in the wide attacking positions and also as a central midfielder.
The ex-Schalke prodigy is known for his ability to create chances. He can make intelligent movements in the final third while his direct style of football makes him a scourge for the defenders, especially on the counter. Another key asset in Draxler’s gameplay is his willingness to test the goalkeeper. He is often on the lookout for space, which he can use to attempt a shot on goal even from long range.
Should Arsenal make a move for Draxler?
Draxler could be an ideal signing for Arsenal this summer. He has experience as well as the winning mentality that could benefit Mikel Arteta’s side in the upcoming campaign. Moreover, the fact that the German can feature in various roles in the attacking third would make the job easier for Arteta to accommodate him in the starting lineup.
However, a lot could depend on how much PSG demand for their prized playmaker. It is also fair to point out that Draxler earns a whopping €7.2 million per year in his current contract, which is probably not possible for the Gunners to match at this point.
