Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund’s rising star, Jamie Gittens, with the club being tipped as strong contenders to land the forward this summer.
Dortmund’s disappointing season, which could see them miss out on European football, is expected to force them into selling key players.
Despite the club’s struggles, Gittens has been one of their standout performers and is now a highly sought-after talent in England.
The 20-year-old, who previously spent time in Chelsea and Reading’s academies, is reportedly on the radar of several Premier League giants, including Manchester United and Liverpool. However, his price tag is expected to be around £83 million.
Former Liverpool defender Markus Babbel believes Arsenal could be in pole position to sign him, largely due to their Champions League qualification prospects. Speaking to Wette.de, Babbel stated:
“There’s a strong chance Jamie Gittens will be playing in the Premier League next season. Dortmund won’t make the Champions League, Europa League, or even the Conference League, so they’ll need to sell players. Gittens is their most valuable asset, making a move likely.”
He further emphasized Arsenal’s advantage, saying:
“Given his talent, he will want Champions League football, which is why Arsenal have a massive opportunity to sign him. He’d be an incredible addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.”
Babbel also questioned whether clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham could compete for Gittens, as their uncertain Champions League status may make Arsenal the more attractive destination.
Meanwhile, another Bundesliga star could also be on the move, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz emerging as a potential target for Manchester City.
Babbel believes City should prioritize signing Wirtz, especially with uncertainty surrounding Kevin De Bruyne’s future.
“Wirtz is one of the Bundesliga’s top players, along with Jamal Musiala. If Manchester City have the chance to sign him, they must take it. He’s a different class,” Babbel said.
He also suggested that De Bruyne could leave Manchester City at the end of the season, possibly for Saudi Arabia.
“De Bruyne isn’t the same as before. His interviews suggest he’s no longer happy. He talks about too many games and the stress of playing in England. I believe he will move to Saudi Arabia, where he can earn huge money and have a less demanding schedule.”
If De Bruyne departs, Babbel believes Wirtz would be the perfect replacement, concluding:
“If Man City lose De Bruyne this summer, Wirtz would be an outstanding signing.”
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