Gunners chasing Hoffenheim ace Florian Grillitsch but must do something first

Arsenal are pursuing a deal for Hoffenheim midfielder Florian Grillitsch but they have to finish in the Champions League to boost their chances of getting the deal done.

Grillitsch is out of contract in the summer and there is no sign of him penning a new one. SportBILD claim that the player is keen to take advantage of his situation and move on. The Gunners are one of the clubs that get a mention.

However there is one key component to any deal. The 26-year-old wants to join a club playing Champions League football. Arsenal have of course yet to achieve that.

They are in the box seat as they sit in fourth spot as things stand. Two points ahead of Tottenham with four games to go. The clash against Antonio Conte’s side next week now has some added importance.

Qualifying for the Champions League was always going to have a huge impact on transfers. Mikel Arteta’s transfer budget will look far healthier with it in the bag. But it is not only the big-money signings that could be impacted. It appears even the free transfers will take it in to consideration.

It leaves Arsenal with a potential issue as both Napoli and Sevilla are keen. Both clubs will be in the Champions League next season and Arsenal will need to join them to have a chance.

SportBILD are reporting that the Austrian international is very calm about the situation. They say he will be able to choose which club he joins in the summer and will weigh up the options.

Leeds United and Everton have also been linked but now appear to be out of the running. The duo are battling at the wrong end of the Premier League. Grillitsch is unlikely to consider a move even if they stay up.

Versatility a big bonus for Arsenal

Grillitsch would be a strong addition to the Arsenal squad for next season. And it’s his versatility which would be a huge plus point for Arteta. He has proven to be very comfortable as a defensive midfielder and also a central defender.

He is known to be composed on the ball and works hard when he doesn’t have it. Grillitsch is a team player and looks to have all the attributes to be a big hit in the Premier League.

With Mohamed Elneny also set to leave Arsenal on a free a replacement is needed. Grillitsch could fit the bill and the fact he would not break the bank is a huge bonus. 

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