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Schalke's Leon Goretzka celebrates after scoring his side's opening goal during the Europa League quarterfinal second leg soccer match between FC Schalke 04 and Ajax Amsterdam in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Thursday, April 20, 2017. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Schalke's Leon Goretzka celebrates after scoring his side's opening goal during the Europa League quarterfinal second leg soccer match between FC Schalke 04 and Ajax Amsterdam in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Thursday, April 20, 2017. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)Martin Meissner/Associated Press

Arsenal Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Leon Goretzka and Theo Walcott

Rob Blanchette
Jun 25, 2017

Schalke starletย Leon Goretzka has played down rumours linking him with a transfer to Arsenal.

The Germany international said he is focusing on playing for his country at the 2017 FIFA Confederationsย Cup and is not concerned by the link to the Gunners.

According to Sky Sports (h/tย Tom Doyleย of theย London Evening Standard), the 22-year-old was vocal about his immediate thoughts.

"I do not want to say anything about the transfer rumours," said Goretzka.ย "I'm focusing on the Confederations Cup.ย I'm not going to give state-of-play updates, but if there are facts, I will announce them.ย I'm not the type to be impressed by newspaper reports, I know what my qualities are, but I will not build myself up."

Germany's midfielder Leon Goretzka arrives for a press conference during the Russia 2017 Confederation Cup football tournament in Sochi on June 24, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / PATRIK STOLLARZ (Photo credit should read PATRIK STOLLARZ/AFP/Getty Images)
PATRIK STOLLARZ/Getty Images

Per Doyle, the player has only one year left on his current deal, making him a target for watching clubs. The player featured in 30 matches in the Bundesliga last season, scoring five times.

There is plenty of development left inย Goretzka, and he would be the perfect addition to the Gunners squad in the summer.

There is every chance he will be available for a good price if he does not opt to stay atย Schalke next term before becoming a free agent.

Arsenal's English midfielder Theo Walcott holds the FA Cup trophy as Arsenal players celebrate their victory over Chelsea on the pitch after the English FA Cup final football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at Wembley stadium in London on May 27, 2017.
IAN KINGTON/Getty Images

In other news, Theo Walcott could be on his way out of Arsenal as he seeks further first-team opportunities.

Steve Stammers and Tom Hopkinson of the Mirrorย reported West Ham United have set their sights on capturing the forward and could pay ยฃ25 million for his services. The England international has lost his place for his country and needs regular football ahead of the World Cup in Russia.

Football writer Sam Inkersole believes Walcott would be an excellent fit for the Hammers:

Walcott is no longer a young talent needing time to develop, but injury and positional issues have stunted his growth.

The forward is proven at Premier League level and would be a smart buy for West Ham, but it is unlikely he can offer Arsenal the goals they need to penetrateย the top-four.

Walcott can certainly rise once again if he finds a team that plays to his strengths, and the Hammers would offer the player a chance to use his speed and raw pace.

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