Arsenal fans came into this January transfer window with hope that the club would spend big on an additional striker to provide protection for Olivier Giroud, especially after Theo Walcott was ruled out for the season.

However, thus far the only player Arsenal have really been linked to with any conviction is German international Julian Draxler.

The Schalke star, who has a release clause of £37 million this summer, looked like he could be heading to the Emirates this January after Arsenal reportedly offered a fee in a similar region to his summer release fee. However, this move now looks more likely to occur, if it does in fact happen, in the summer.

While Arsene Wenger has played down the suggestion of Arsenal signing the German youngster, Gunners legend Robert Pires spoke of his admiration for the player, giving the move his full backing.

“Whenever I see him play, I always think his style of play would be a perfect fit for Arsenal,” the Frenchman said.

“I can well imagine Draxler being used on the left, but also as number 9, he could really strengthen the team.

The deal is apparently unlikely to happen this window, but in the summer, as German newspaper Bild have reported that Draxler believes that his sale would prove to be extremely costly to Schalke during the season, meaning it would take an offer in excess of £45 million for the German outfit to consider.

Draxler is a fantastic talent and would without doubt improve Arsenal’s squad and strengthen our title push; however, even if he is signed in summer, it will be worth the wait.

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