Arsenal: 5 transfers still attainable without Champions League football
By Josh Sippie
1. Leon Goretzka
All of the guys on this list, up to now, had one big thing in common – there is far more ‘promise’ than actual, proven ability. And while they could all turn into stars in one fell swoop, no one is closer to being a ready-made product, without the glaring need for Champions League football, than Leon Goretzka.
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The 22-year-old German can play any midfield role, but given his size and defensive ability, he figures to be the perfect partner to Granit Xhaka and the perfect competitor for Aaron Ramsey.
Goretzka doesn’t want for pace, despite his plus size, and it’s in his strengths that we should find a pre-made solution to our ongoing midfield problems. Goretzka is a rock on the ball, rarely ever surrendering possession, he passes with precision and he strikes quickly enough to nab goals as well.
On the year thus far he has accumulated eight goals and three assists across all competitions.
His versatility is just icing on the cake because he could feasibly play an attacking midfield role too. There just isn’t a lot that Goretzka wouldn’t be able to do.
According to Schalke, Goretzka is not in talks to extend his deal, which runs up in 2018, and therefore figures to be on the move this summer.
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Goretzka doesn’t have any patience attached, his skill set should facilitate a smooth transition into the Premier League, especially into a three-back formation that he has been used in at Schalke.