Reus arousing Gunners radar after release clause leaked

Arsenal are said to be one of a number of clubs that are courting the signature of Germany and Borussia Dortmund forward Marco Reus.

The 25-year-old is one of the most sought-after players in world football, however, missed the World Cup in Brazil, having to withdraw from Joachim Low’s squad at the last minute due to injury.

While Reus has reportedly rejected a contract extension at Dortmund earlier this summer, it is understood that the £19.8m release clause doesn’t come into effect until the end of next season. His club are market-leading 13/2 second favourites to win the Bundesliga title, with the new campaign imminent, and will no doubt increase their efforts to tie him down while they still benefit from his services.

Despite interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Bayern Munich, Arsenal are in pole position to secure his signature, with both the fee and Reus’ wages easily payable from their perspective.

In order to avoid a bidding war in 12 months time, Arsene Wenger may take advantage of his almost bottom-less pit of cash reserves and offer Dortmund considerably more than his release clause before the transfer window closes. The Frenchman is a born tactician, and with Liverpool having spent a significant sum, and United tracking other priorities Arsenal could be ideally primed to pounce. Bayern Munich is an unlikely destination, after the Bundesliga champions signed Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski in consecutive seasons, with the latter arriving on a free transfer.

The north London outfit also have a strong German contingent with Per Mertasaker, Lukas Podolski, Serge Gnabry and Mesut Ozil already at the club, and this could be a strong factor in luring Reus. Furthermore, Wenger also speaks German, and used this to good effect to persuade Ozil to take up residence at the Emirates.

If Arsenal can land Reus this summer, their market-leading odds of 7/1 to win the Premier League next term would be sure to plummet.