- Arsenal look set to miss out on the transfer of Schalke contract rebel Leon Goretzka
- Barcelona appear to be the Germany international’s preferred destination for next season
- Goretzka, 22, told Barcelona he wants to join them during talks over the international break
- READ MORE: Arsenal close in on stunning four-man spending spree: Man Utd & Real Madrid stars eyed in major overhaul
Arsenal look set to miss out on the signing of Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer as he reportedly tells Barcelona he wants to join them next season.
The Germany international is due to be out of contract with his current club at the end of the season, and looks like being one of the biggest talents available on a free next summer.
The Daily Mirror recently claimed Arsenal had made the 22-year-old a top target for next season, but it looks like he’s already committed to moving to the Nou Camp.
Mundo Deportivo claim Barca chiefs met over the recent international break in a meeting in Cologne that was no doubt kept under wraps, during which Goretzka confirmed that the Catalan giants were his preferred choice.
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This looks an exciting deal for Barcelona as they look to bring in a long-term replacement for playmaker Andres Iniesta, with Goretzka showing himself to be a very able creator in midfield.
Arsenal will be disappointed, however, as Arsene Wenger could really do with a player like Goretzka as an upgrade on disappointing performers like Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsey.
Central midfield looks an area of real weakness for the Gunners, but they may now have to look elsewhere as there’s little they can do to change Goretzka’s mind as his future lies in his own hands.