Julian Draxler
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger only admitted after the January transfer window had elapsed that he had even attempted to sign Julian Draxler from FC Schalke 04, and the 20 year-old remains something of an anomaly amongst the other forwards on his shortlist.
Draxler is an attacking midfielder by trade, but newspaper reports have suggested that Arsene Wenger intends to convert the young German into a striker, having seen similar qualities to Robin Van Persie in him.
The Schalke star possesses wonderful technique, strikes the ball incredibly hard – particularly from range – and is the second most prolific dribbler in the Bundesliga behind Franck Ribery.
Wenger has considerable pedigree in adapting wingers to top class centre forwards – as well as Robin Van Persie, Thierry Henry was famously signed as a wide man before turning into the top goalscorer in Arsenal history.
At 20 years of age, Draxler is the youngest player on Wenger’s reported shortlist by five years, meaning Gunners fans might have to be more patient with the German than another forward, with the rest finished products.
Still, the rewards are limitless.
Draxler has scored five times and assisted on eight occasions in his 24 club games this season, having managed 13 goals and seven assists in 39 matches last term.
Given the opportunity to play up front, Draxler could become a great goalscorer.
COMMENTS