(Credit: Imago)

Evan Shaw

Wed 4 March 2026 11:00, UK

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Arsenal are continuing to “push” towards a deal to sign Leon Goretzka this summer as Inter Milan are also in the frame to land him.

The San Siro outfit are currently leading the race to sign the German midfielder in Italy, but they are facing strong competition from the Premier League leaders in the race to secure his signature.

However, there is concern from the Inter hierarchy that the 31-year-old’s wage demands would stand him alongside the likes of Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Marcus Thuram among the highest earners in their squad.

Football Insider recently revealed that Arsenal’s transfer pursuit has set them comfortably ahead of Tottenham when it comes to a move for the outgoing Bayern Munich star, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.

This is how much Arsenal would have to pay Leon Goretzka

Goretzka is a highly experienced player, having tasted Champions League glory during his time at the Allianz Arena, as well as being on course for a remarkable seventh Bundesliga title this term.

He remains a key figure for Vincent Kompany’s all-conquering team, having started in 16 of their 24 league games so far this term, and is expected to be a vital part of the Germany squad that travels to the World Cup this summer.

Players of his calibre typically come with a wage premium, and that will likely become even clearer due to the fact that no transfer fee will be needed to secure his services this summer.

Goretzka and his entourage are understood to be chasing a three-year deal for his next contract, while his wage demands sit around the £100,000-a-week mark, according to Italian outlet Tutto Sport.

The reservations from Inter about handing the former Schalke man such a significant pay packet look set to give Arsenal a crucial advantage in the race to sign him, as the Premier League’s elite typically boast astronomical spending capabilities.

Goretzka’s stance on Gunners switch revealed

Former Aston Villa and Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider back in February that Arsenal are keeping a close eye on Goretzka ahead of his contract in Germany expiring.

The Scottish businessman revealed that he has heard that the veteran midfielder wants to move to London for the next stage of his career, and the Emirates Stadium looks set to be the most likely place to provide that for him.

The lure of the Premier League is hugely strong across the rest of Europe’s major leagues, and its power and lucrative nature could have the decisive say for Goretzka on this occasion.

Arsenal already have high-quality options in the centre of their midfield with the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, and adding Goretzka to their ranks would bolster their central depth even further.