Arsenal continue to fight for the Premier League and Champions League, but behind the scenes plans are underway at the Emirates for the summer transfer window.
Arsenal and Atletico Madrid could also face each other off the pitch (Image: Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Atletico Madrid have joined the race to sign Arsenal target Julian Brandt on a free transfer. Brandt, 29, has chosen not to sign a contract and will leave Borussia Dortmund this summer.
The midfielder has spent his entire career in Germany but is reportedly keen on a move abroad. Arsenal emerged as a candidate last month, with Atletico, whom Mikel Arteta’s side will face in the Champions League semi-finals, also being considered.
Spain’s Marca reports that Atlético sporting director Mateu Alemany has shortlisted Brandt to replace club legend Antoine Griezmann, who will join MLS side Orlando City in the summer transfer window.
Brunt’s experience and versatility make him an attractive option for the club. The German has scored 11 goals in 37 games this season, making it his most productive season in front of goal since joining Dortmund from Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen in 2019.
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Brandt, who turns 30 in June, was in talks with BVB to sign a new contract, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement. Dortmund chief executive Lars Ricken confirmed: “Open discussions took place and both sides agreed not to extend the expiring contract.”
“He has played hundreds of games for Borussia Dortmund, and I think we have nothing but to thank him for. He played for us for seven years. He was sometimes viewed with criticism. Today (in Dortmund’s 2-1 away win against Cologne) he provided another assist.”
“I think in a few weeks he’ll be 30. We’ll be able to reevaluate things. So this could be an opportunity for both of us. I believe we’ve finally come to an agreement and parted ways with great respect. But this is also a new opportunity for both of us.”
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Julian Brandt available on free transfer (Image: Hendrik Deckers/Borussia Dortmund via Getty Images)
Earlier this month, Brandt was asked about his future plans. In an interview with Sky Germany, he explained: “Be surprised. There are a lot of ideas, and not all ideas are good, but there are a lot of ideas.
“In principle, I do not rule out anything. But there are things that I like, and others that are difficult to imagine at the moment. As I said, I have one or two ideas, but everything will be decided in time.”
“There’s no need to rush things. Now we’re slowly approaching the end of the season, but we still have important games left. It’s also unfair to the club to suddenly start talking here and there. We have to finish things properly and then we have plenty of time to think about how things will continue. I’m not worried about that at all.”
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