According to Kicker, Arsenal and Newcastle are interested in signing Florian Grillitsch when his contract with Hoffenheim expires in June.
What’s the story?
Well, the 26-year-old isn’t just wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle, with many clubs keeping an eye on his situation.
Kicker believe Roma, Lazio and Napoli are also interested in Grillitsch, while AC Milan are said to be keen on signing him as well.
The 33-cap Austria international becomes a free agent in June, and his chances of staying with Hoffenheim look slim.
Kicker add that Grillitsch has changed his agency from Grass is Green to ICM Stellar Sport, a global industry leader according to the German news outlet.
That is the biggest indication so far that he is looking to move clubs this summer, and by the looks of things, he isn’t short of options.
So far this season, Grillitsch has made 12 appearances in the Bundesliga, helping Hoffenheim to seventh place at this stage of the campaign.
Arsenal and Newcastle want the new Bastian Schweinsteiger
You may not have heard of Grillitsch, and if that is the case, then a comparison to a better known player wouldn’t go amiss.
Interestingly, the Arsenal and Newcastle target has been compared to Bayern Munich and Germany icon Bastian Schweinsteiger.
It was the Bundesliga’s official website who made the claim.
Specifically, they liken the two midfielders as a result of their tenacity off the ball – it is said that they ‘hound’ their opponents.
Additionally, their ability on the ball, mainly their passing qualities, are comparable, as is their versatility.
Schweinsteiger operated on the wing before moving centrally, whereas Grillitsch is capable of playing at centre-back as well as in midfield.
Keep an eye on this saga, as Arsenal or Newcastle could soon land themselves a bargain if they can fend off interest from Italy.
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