Arsenal will need to fill the void left by Aaron Ramsey this summer, and Mario Gotze is being linked with a move to North London – but would the German be an adept replacement?
According to claims from German news outlet Bild, contract talks between the midfielder and Borussia Dortmund have stalled over the player’s financial demands.
Gotze is understood to be required to take a pay cut if he is to remain with the Bundesliga giants. Alternatively, a move to Arsenal could be on the cards, with the report indicating that Unai Emery is eyeing him.
Once tipped for big things and backed to become one of the world’s best playmakers, it is safe to say that the attacking midfielder has flattered to deceive after his early promise. However, the Emirates Stadium could be just the place for him to rejuvenate his career.
Gotze remains a hugely talented footballer; he is good on the half-turn, has a superb eye for a pass and can cut defences apart with his outstanding spatial awareness and vision while in possession.
Huge question marks remain over his fitness and durability over the season, and these would only be more prominent should he make a move to the more physically-demanding Premier League.
However, Gotze has a point to prove. He will be determined to show that he is still capable of being a game-winner for prestigious teams in European football, and Arsenal could benefit from this unwavering desire to succeed.
Ramsey’s move to Juventus – particularly with the deal being free of charge for the Turin side – came as a big blow for the Gunners, and it has left them with a big rebuilding job to consider this summer.
The Welshman’s industry, propensity to find pockets of space in dangerous positions and influence on those around him will be sorely missed.
Gotze would present a suitable replacement in terms of ability, but regarding the equally important demands of consistency and reliability, he is no real match for Ramsey.
Adding him to the squad would improve Arsenal’s creative options, but the Germany international should not arrive as the primary replacement for the departing midfielder.
