Manchester United and Arsenal target Leon Goretzka to make career announcement in January
Schalke star and Germany international, 22, is out of contract in summer and looks likely to join a new club
MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal target Leon Goretzka will make an announcement on his future in January.
The Schalke midfielder, 22, is out of contract in the summer and looks likely to join a new club.
Speaking after yesterday's 2-2 draw with Cologne, he said: "I have to find out for myself what the next step should be.
"I have to consider a million things. I am a person who is very meticulous in such decisions. I play through all the scenarios. So I need time.
"There doesn’t exist a deadline, but I think we are in the final phase.
"The final decision will be made in January."
United and Arsenal face competition from Barcelona for the Germany international's signature.
Juventus and Bayern Munich are also reportedly interested.
LEON KING Leon Goretzka would be wasted at Manchester United and City… the Schalke midfielder ought to join Chelsea or Arsenal
And it is no wonder considering his six goals in all competitions this season - including two in Germany's World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan.
Goretzka joined Schalke in 2013 from second division side VFL Bochum.
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Sporting director Christian Heidel in November admitted he was hopeful of holding onto his prized asset.
He said: "I think if Schalke had no chance to keep him I would be the first to know that. But I haven't received that kind of information until now."
Goretzka has been likened to Michael Ballack for his aggressive, attacking style of football.
But he yesterday drew better comparison to Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane - after HEADBUTTING Cologne rival Salih Ozcan in the chest.
Officials failed to punish Goretzka despite the referee standing right next to him.
Goretzka denied any malice and claimed that it was purely accidental.
He told Sky Sports: "The referee is right next to it. If he had seen aggression, he would have pulled me aside.
"I just want to get up impulsively. I admit that it looks unfortunate. But it was certainly not intentional, I did not want to injure him. My name is not Zinedine Zidane. It is unnecessary to discuss it."