Barcelona News: Arsenal star Mesut Ozil lined up for transfer but face Man Utd battle

BARCELONA want to sign Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil but face competition from Manchester United, according to reports.

Steve Nicol: Arsenal mediocre without Mesut Ozil

Ozil’s Arsenal career appears to be winding down with the player’s contract expiring at the end of the season.

The Germany international seems unlikely to sign a contract extension, despite Arsene Wenger repeatedly reiterating his desire to keep hold of the 28-year-old.

And Goal say that Barcelona, as well as United, are keen on securing his signature.

Given his contract situation, the player is free to talk to foreign clubs in January about a move and Arsenal could be forced to cash in on him to avoid losing him for nothing.

It is said Ozil is open to joining the La Liga side or embarking on a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.

Mourinho previously managed the player while at Real Madrid, signing him from Werder Bremen after he burst onto the scene at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Goal add that Ozil would be a considerably cheaper option than Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho. 

Barcelona spent much of the summer pursuing the Brazilian, armed with the finances gained from Neymar’s £200million exit to Paris Saint-Germain.

But Liverpool, despite the player wanting to move to Catalonia, managed to retain his services.

Barcelona Arsenal Mesut Ozil Manchester UnitedGETTY

Barcelona News: Arsenal star Mesut Ozil is also wanted by Manchester United

Barcelona Arsenal Mesut Ozil Manchester UnitedGETTY

Barcelona News: Mesut Ozil would be a cheaper alternative to Philippe Coutinho

Meanwhile, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown thinks Ozil has already mentally left the Emirates.

"I think he's testing [Arsene] Wenger more than any other player has,” he told BBC Radio Five Live.

"Suddenly he was injured again, he played nine minutes against West Bromwich Albion on the Monday, so how did he get injured there? 

"I think in some departments he's already left. Psychologically, mentally, he's already left the football club. 

“Maybe Wenger is now trying to do the best deal he can to get some compensation for him."

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