Arsenal Target German Duo Schurrle & Holtby

Despite the transfer window being closed, there is always transfer gossip doing the rounds in the papers and we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest news during the coming months. Today, Arsenal are linked with two German internationals.

Arsenal have short-listed German attackers Lewis Holtby and Andre Schurrle as Arsene Wenger continues to recruit from the Bundesliga, according to the Daily Mail.

The Gunners boss is planning on expanding his German scouting network after being left impressed by the hard-working attitude and the quality of the four Germans already on the books at the Emirates – namely experienced internationals Per Mertesacker and Lukas Podolski and youngsters Serge Gnabry and Thomas Eisfeld.

The Mail now report that Wenger is keen to add Bayer Leverkusen forward Andre Schurrle and Schalke midfielder Lewis Holtby to this German contingent.

Schurrle was a member of the German Euro 2012 squad and is a versatile attacker who can play anywhere across the front line. Chelsea had a £20m bid for the 21-year-old rejected in the summer so Leverkusen will be looking for an offer in excess of that amount if they are to consider selling the youngster.

However, Holtby is in the final year of his contract and has so far been unable to agree terms over an extension. He will therefore be able to sign a pre-contract agreement this January ahead of a free transfer summer move.

Wenger has stepped up his interest in the 22-year-old after being left impressed by his display during Schalke’s 2-0 win at the Emirates last week, but he could face competition from Liverpool who are also said to be keen.

Read more Arsenal transfer news

I was extremely impressed with Schurrle at the Euro’s and he’d no doubt be a great addition to the squad. However, with a price-tag in excess of £20m, i’m not convinced Arsene will pay what will be required to land him, especially if Chelsea renew their interest and push the price up even further.

Holtby seems a far more plausible signing. He’ll potentially be available on a free so he’s right up Wenger’s street!

Would you like Schurrle and/or Holtby at Arsenal? Get involved in the comments section.

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