Wenger after new RVP! Gunners make £37m move for next German star Draxler as they look to solve striking problems

Arsenal are ready to splash out £37million on the German wonderkid they believe can be the next Robin van Persie.

They are prepared to meet the release clause for Julian Draxler, 20, who has been identified as a priority target for the Gunners after an intensive scouting drive.

Arsene Wenger’s staff believe Draxler, who plays as an attacking midfielder for Schalke, has the attributes to play as a lone centre forward.

Arsenal think Draxler has similar qualities to those of Van Persie and Thierry Henry, who arrived in north London as wingers but became prolific goalscorers.

Wenger may yet move for Draxler this month but the release clause does not apply until the summer.

Having failed to land Luis Suarez or Wayne Rooney last summer and with limited cover, he has made signing a new centre forward a priority.

Olivier Giroud made a goalscoring return from a knock in the 2-1 win against Aston Villa on Monday night, but there is a risk should the Frenchman pick up a serious injury.

Nicklas Bendtner could be out for another three weeks, while Lukas Podolski has struggled for form since returning from his fitness struggles.

Arsenal have also been linked with Real Madrid poacher Alvaro Morata in this transfer window.

DailyMail