Schalke stand their ground over Arsenal's pursuit of German star Julian Draxler

 

 SCHALKE are standing their ground over Arsenal's continued pursuit of German star Julian Draxler.

Arsenal are hoping to sign German star Julian Draxler before the close of the transfer window on Friday

Starsport revealed earlier this week that the Gunners had made a 'take it or leave it' £24.7m bid for the Schalke wonderkid.

The 20-year-old has a £37m buy-out clause inserted into his current contract, but the Gunners have proposed a deal with various adds-on in an attempt to land Draxler before the close of the transfer window on Friday.

Schalke sporting director Horst Heldt believes the German international will remain in Gelsenkirchen, but admitted if a 'serious' offer is received the club would consider a possible sale.

Arsenal are actively looking to add to their squad 

“We are happy to have such a world class player in our lines. I am very convinced that Draxler will be playing for us in the Rueckrunde [second half of the season] but most probably beyond that,” he said.

“We are not interested in letting Julian leave, and he has also not approached us about a transfer.
“I checked my office if someone was waiting for me, but nobody was there.

"Of course, there are always other clubs interested in him, and should someone make a serious offer for him, then we as a club have to professionally consider that.

"That does not only apply to Julian Draxler, but to every other player.”
Draxler has four-years left on his current contract and it is unlikely that Schalke will consider letting their star man leave for anything under his buy-out clause.