ARSENAL have been given a boost in their chase for Julian Brandt after Bernd Leno revealed he’s been texting the Borussia Dortmund star to join him in London.
Reports claim Brandt, 24, has emerged as a top summer target for Mikel Arteta.
Current Arsenal playmaker Martin Odegaard, 22, is only on loan from Real Madrid.
And Los Blancos will refuse to sell the Norwegian unless they receive an extremely high offer.
That means Odegaard is unlikely to remain at the Emirates, with Brandt now the first choice to replace him.
Dortmund’s versatile attacking midfielder is said to have a release clause worth just £22million this summer.
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Brandt is also believed to be open to a transfer after scoring five goals in 61 games for Dortmund.
A stunning switch to the Emirates could now be on the cards as Arteta also lines up an exit for flop winger Willian.
And Gunners goalie Leno, who played with Brandt at former club Bayer Leverkusen, admits he’s been in touch to discuss transfer plans.
Indeed, Brandt has already bagged an invite to Leno’s upcoming wedding.
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And Arsenal’s shot-stopper looks to be playing the role of ‘Agent Leno’ by persuading Brandt to join him in the capital.
Leno told Sport 1: “I read the rumours with Arsenal and wrote him a few messages right away.
“I don’t know what is really there, but I would be happy if he would come.
“Julian is a good friend, we had a very good time in Leverkusen and privately we were often out for beers.
“Maybe we can experience that again in the future. He’s also invited to my wedding next year.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
