Arsenal Transfers: Mario Goetze Rumours Gather Pace as £30 Million Fee Mooted

The rumours of Arsenal's determination to sign Mario Goetze show no signs of letting up. A £30 million fee and a director's meeting between the Gunners and Borussia Dortmund have also been suggested.

The Daily Mail reports that Arsenal are intent on fending off interest in Goetze from some of Europe's other top clubs. The report suggests that the Gunners would have to part ways with around £30 million in order to land Goetze in the January transfer window.

It is also rumoured that Arsenal officials will take the opportunity presented by Wednesday's Champions League clash with the reigning Bundelisga Champions to discuss a potential deal.

Arsenal's interest in Goetze has been well-known for a long time. While it is important to always be a little wary of the speculation approaching any transfer window, the Gunners' links to Goetze aren't going away.

The last time Arsenal were linked this persistently with a player was in the winter of 2008, with that speculation paving the way for the protracted transfer of Andrey Arshavin.

Goetze's vision, flair and classy finishing make him the perfect fit for Arsenal's fluid style. His speed of thought and creative instincts would make Goetze a natural focal point for Arsenal's attacking play.

It will be interesting to see how Goetze performs on Wednesday night, as he was mostly disappointing in the first meeting between the two teams.

The diminutive playmaker has since shown his best form and, as a result, Dortmund have staged a remarkable recovery in the league.

There are those who have asked why Arsenal would buy an attacking midfielder when they already have Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere?

This is a similar sentiment to the one expressed by those who asked where Cesc Fabregas would fit into Barcelona's outstanding midfield.

Goetze possesses a talent that would be a welcome addition to any team, and Arsene Wenger has always valued this kind of player above all others.

Don't underestimate the effect that the threat of missing out on the top four will have on the Gunners' hierarchy.

It was a similar risk that prompted Arsenal to make Arshavin the club's record signing in January 2009.

If Arsenal's top four status is still in serious doubt come the end of January, a big-money move for a rising star could be the club's best way to provide a crucial boost for both the team and the fans.