5 Possible Destinations for Leon Goretzka
From Julian Draxler to Leroy Sané, Gelsenkirchen outfit Schalke 04 are renowned for producing excellent young players; they are perhaps even more well-known for letting them go. The latest in the long-line of superb Schalke youth-products set to depart is midfield dynamo Leon Goretzka.
The versatile 22-year-old has seen his value soar over the past few seasons and is on the brink of a move away. The German international's contract expires next summer and, following his rejection of Schalke's renewal offer, it is likely that the club will look to cash-in on their main man in January to avoid allowing the midfielder to leave on a free several months later.
Naturally, clubs are circling like sharks at the prospect of snapping up world-class talent for a likely discounted price. Unfortunately for them, there is an awful lot of competition for Goretzka's signature.
Here's a look at five possible clubs Goretzka could find himself at very soon...
#1 Manchester United
It's remarkably difficult to scroll through headlines about Leon Goretzka without seeing the 22-year-old discussed in conjunction with the Red Devils. José Mourinho has slowly but surely assembled a side comprised of a solid spine, but Goretzka would only add more world-class talent to the United contingent.
Last weekend, Goretzka's current side Schalke came back from 4-0 down to draw 4-4 with Revier-Derby rivals Borussia Dortmund and the German international was instrumental in the revival, coming on at 33 minutes, when Schalke were yet to score. Despite his youthfulness, Goretzka grabbed his side by the scruff of their neck and lead by example.
Not only is he influential from the bench, but he is a born leader and Manchester United may have the talented Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera to call on in the middle, but they are still in need of a long-term replacement for the likes of Michael Carrick. Goretzka would orchestrate every move of United's and would be an excellent, composed force through the middle.