Arsenal transfers: Gunners suffer fresh Julian Draxler setback

Arsenal have suffered a blow in their pursuit of Julian Draxler after Schalke insisted that they expect to stave off any interest in the playmaker this summer.

The 20-year-old was heavily linked with a big-money switch to Emirates Stadium in the January transfer window but a move failed to materialise during the mid-season window.

I believe that Draxler will stay with us

Horst Heldt

The Germany international continues to be touted as a possible target for Arsenal as Arsene Wenger looks to bolster his midfield options.

But Schalke sporting director Horst Heldt has poured cold water on the speculation linking the highly-rated playmaker with a move to north London by declaring that he expects him to stay at the Bundesliga club beyond the summer.

“I believe that Draxler will stay with us,” Heldt told Sky90.

Speaking last month, the player himself refused to be drawn on the speculation surrounding his future.

“I’d prefer not to comment on all those rumours,” said Draxler.

“Look at what happened with Manuel Neuer. He was 100 per cent convinced that he would never join FC Bayern but, after having played as a pro for five years, time made him change his opinion.”