Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker has given hope that his side could sign Ilkay Gundogan during the summer transfer window.
Gundogan is currently into the final three weeks of his contract with Manchester City, meaning he would be available on a free transfer if he doesn't pen fresh terms before then. The Gunners are one team to be linked with a potential move, as well as La Liga champions Barcelona and Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain.
Now, Mertesacker has spoken candidly about the prospect of the German international signing for the north Londoners this summer. The 38-year-old has claimed that they are in a good position considering the player's relationship with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who previously worked with Gundogan when he was Pep Guardiola's assistant coach at City for three and a half years.
Speaking as a pundit for German broadcaster ZDF, via Metro, Mertesacker said City's Champions League final victory could convince his compatriot to leave Manchester. "To say, okay, mission accomplished," the former centre-back said when discussing the impact City's treble win could have on Gundogan's future.
He then added: "I think the clubs are queuing. Because Arteta knows him and we probably haven’t broken off contact, we’re in a good position.
"I think he’ll let it all sink in first and then choose from one of the four clubs." Gundogan fits the criteria as the perfect veteran candidate to replace Gunners midfielder Granit Xhaka, who is set to join Bayer Leverkusen this summer, football.london understands.
READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Declan Rice offer, William Saliba contract, Chiesa contact
A transfer to Leverkusen is on the verge of being completed which would see Xhaka sign for a €15million (£13million) deal and pen a contract with Xabi Alonso's men until 2027.
READ NEXT:
Jack Wilshere makes huge Declan Rice to Arsenal claim as Mikel Arteta closes in on £92m transfer
Arsenal move one step closer to completing £120m Declan Rice transfer as West Ham bid prepared
