Transfer News: Arsenal and Leeds fight over PSG’s Julian Draxler

Arsenal and Leeds – two teams who will battle at opposite ends of the Premier League table – are to fight it out for PSG’s Julian Draxler.

Julian Draxler is a wanted man. The German international’s dream move to PSG from Wolfsburg in 2017 has become somewhat of a nightmare, with the winger stuck behind Neymar and Kylian Mbappe for minutes.

However, Draxler (still only 26 years old) remains one of the silkiest midfield operators on the continent. A natural dribbler blessed with athleticism and great technical ability.

So, it comes as little surprise to see the PSG man linked with a move to Arsenal, who have been long time admirers since his days as Germany’s next wunderkind at Schalke. The Gunners are reportedly even prepared to offer Matteo Guendouzi to PSG in part exchange.

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"Arsenal to swap Guendouzi with PSG’s Draxler.Julian Draxler has spent the past six years being linked with Arsenal, moving from Schalke to Wolfsburg and then on to Paris Saint-Germain in that time.In a Rumour Mill throwback, the 26-year-old German international midfielder is once again being linked with a move to the Emirates, with speculation from France suggesting PSG are ready to offer him as a makeweight in a deal to bring petulant Frenchman Matteo Guendouzi to the French capital. (Via: theguardian.com)"

It is a surprise, however, to see Leeds United listed as one of Draxler’s many suitors. Newly promoted Leeds have been aggressive in the transfer market, purchasing established top flight quality from around Europe, like Rodrigo from Valencia and Freiburg’s Robin Koch.

Draxler, however, is a different class of player altogether – the youngest member of Germany’s World Cup winning squad in 2014. He’s been a regular performer in the Champions League for years.

Therefore, it seems unfathomable that a player of his pedigree would consider a move to a newly promoted club, especially as he enters the prime of his career.

Draxler should choose his English move carefully

Last season, Draxler appeared a mere 11 times in all competitions for PSG, producing no goals or assists for the French champions.

With game time hard to come by, the winger’s confidence levels will no doubt be at rock bottom – which is why his next career move should be carefully deliberated. If he is to move to England, and to one of Leeds or Arsenal, the German should prioritise game time in an attacking system which best fits his style of play.

Whilst Leeds played an attractive, entertaining brand of football last term under Marcelo Bielsa in the Championship, it is yet to be seen if their attacking dynamism under their talismanic coach can translate well to the top flight.

A move to Yorkshire would also likely mean a campaign spent battling relegation, a first for Draxler. Meanwhile, a move to Arsenal offers the chance to play with higher-quality teammates in a top 6 chasing side, competing on many fronts including Europe.

However, competition is fierce in North London, particularly with the Gunners recently acquiring another winger in Willian from Chelsea.

Wherever Julian Draxler ends up this window, one can only hope it is at a club which will rebuild his confidence, and unlock the true potential of one of football’s biggest talents.