Arsenal could miss out on signing Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt, with the German club reportedly set to offer him an 'astronomical' pay rise.
The 26-year-old has been integral to his side's title charge this season, helping Dortmund get within two points of reigning champions Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga.
He is currently the club's top scorer in the league with eight goals from midfield. And his form hasn't gone unnoticed, with the Gunners allegedly keen to lure him to the Emirates.
Advert
However, Jude Bellingham's expected departure this summer has left Dortmund adamant to not let another midfielder leave.
So much so, they are reportedly planning to offer Brandt an 'astronomical' increase in salary, claim German news outlet DW.
With his contract due to expire in 2024, Arsenal and north London rivals Tottenham were alerted to the possibility of signing him at a discount price.
Advert
Although, if reports are to be believed, they will find it difficult to match Dortmund's latest contract offer.
Brandt 'dreams' of Premier League move
Despite Dortmund's best efforts to keep him, Brandt reportedly "dreams" of a move to the Premier League.
Speaking to Caught Offside, respected journalist Christian Falk gave his take on Brandt's situation.
Advert
Falk said: "He’s been dreaming for years of making it in the Premier League.
"There has always been contact with Arsenal and we’ve heard that the club is interested again.
"His contract expires in 2024, so there has to be a decision, especially now that he’s found more consistency this term in comparison to recent years at Dortmund.
"Now, it could be the time to make the next step and follow [Kai] Havertz to England.
Advert
"He hasn’t got one club in his head at the moment, but Arsenal are of course more interested than ever before."
Indeed, Mikel Arteta is thought to be keen to add two central midfielders to his squad in preparation for their busy Champions League schedule next season, with a top four finish all but sealed.
Whilst Brandt's ability to play on either flank as well as in the number 10 position could prove very useful.
Topics: Football, Transfers, Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, Mikel Arteta, Premier League
Joe Adams