Arsenal transfer news: European giants drop out of Sanchez race, Spurs join Goretzka race and more 5th November 2017
Bayern Munich drop Alexis Sanchez interest
In what is bittersweet news for the Gunners faithful, Bayern president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge clarified the German club's stance on the player while confirming the departure. He told Sky Germany:
"I think Sanchez has already decided which club [to join], so I suppose that the door will be closed in January. That's not an issue, and he is no direct substitute for Robert Lewandowski as he is not a real centre-forward."
While Rummenigge did not mention Sanchez's preferred destination, Arsenal will be hoping it is not to domestic rivals Manchester City.
North London to battle for Leon Goretzka
The Schalke man is one of the most-sought midfielders across Europe with his contract expiring in the summer of 2018. The German international has been linked to Barcelona with rumours indicating the Catalan side to be his preferred destination.
However, The Sunday Mirror reports that Arsenal's local rivals Tottenham are now interested in the player. Spurs under Daniel Levy have consistently made shrewd purchases while remaining competitive, implying the 22-year old will fit the bill while his quality is unquestionable.
This could prove difficult for Arsene Wenger to sign the player as all the interested clubs currently play in the Champions League.
Arsenal watch Lemar
Despite Wenger's statements on the AS Monaco playmaker, Mercato365.com reports that the Gunners have not given up on the player. Further, the London side sent scouts to monitor the French international in Champions League on Wednesday.
However, Lemar got injured in the 26th minute and was subsequently replaced. Thus, the scouting trip ended less fruitful for Arsenal.
This could imply an Arsenal bid for the player as early as January and it remains to be seen whether the Gunners end up signing the 21-year old with several other clubs interested.