Arsenal Target Goretzka from Bayern amid Spurs Race 2026

Key Points

• Arsenal are reportedly planning a move to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka ahead of the summer transfer window.​
• The Gunners currently have Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and Christian Norgaard as options in deeper midfield positions.​
• Mikel Merino has been ruled out for an extended period after fracturing his foot, leaving Zubimendi and Rice as Mikel Arteta’s only trusted midfield options.​
• Arsenal attempted to sign a new midfielder late in the winter transfer window, with Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali heavily linked on deadline day.​
• Football Insider reports that Arsenal expressed interest in Goretzka in January but did not make a concrete approach.​
• Arsenal remain interested and have been “keeping a very close eye” on Goretzka’s situation for a potential summer swoop.​
• The 31-year-old Goretzka is set to leave Bayern Munich as a free agent at the end of the season.​
• Tottenham Hotspur are currently the favourites to sign Goretzka, making any deal for Arsenal not straightforward.​
• Goretzka is a box-to-box midfielder who has won every major competition with Bayern Munich.​
• He has been key in Bayern’s Bundesliga title charge this season and for the German national team.​
• Christian Norgaard is on a short-term contract until the end of next season, with Arsenal holding an option to extend for one more year.​
• If Norgaard continues to struggle, Arsenal may seek a new midfielder.​
• Standing at 6ft 2in, Goretzka’s experience could be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal.​

North London (North London News) February 11, 2026 – Arsenal are plotting a summer move for Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka as injuries expose vulnerabilities in Mikel Arteta’s engine room, according to Football Insider. The 31-year-old German international is out of contract at the end of the season and could join the Gunners on a free transfer, though Tottenham Hotspur lead the race. With Mikel Merino sidelined long-term by a fractured foot, Arteta is left relying on Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in deeper roles, prompting fresh transfer interest.​

Who is Leon Goretzka and Why Does Arsenal Want Him?

Leon Goretzka, a towering 6ft 2in box-to-box midfielder, has been a cornerstone at Bayern Munich, winning every major honour including multiple Bundesliga titles and the Champions League.

As reported by Football Insider, he remains pivotal in Bayern’s current Bundesliga title charge and holds a key role in the German national team. Arsenal’s interest stems from a need for midfield depth, with Christian Norgaard on a short-term deal until the end of next season and an option for one more year; however, his ongoing struggles could accelerate the Gunners’ pursuit.​

Goretzka’s versatility and experience make him an attractive free-agent target. Football Insider sources indicate Arsenal have been “keeping a very close eye” on his situation after expressing interest in January without a formal bid. At 31, he offers immediate Premier League impact without a transfer fee, aligning with Arteta’s strategy of shrewd recruitment.​

What is Arsenal’s Current Midfield Situation?

Arsenal boast a strong midfield core with Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and Christian Norgaard available for deeper positions. Yet, as detailed by Football Insider, Merino’s foot fracture has ruled him out for an extended period, drastically reducing options.

This leaves Zubimendi and Rice as the only trusted pairings for Mikel Arteta, exposing a lack of cover amid a demanding schedule.​

Norgaard’s contract situation adds uncertainty. Signed on a short-term basis until next season’s end, Arsenal hold an extension option, but continued poor form could see him sidelined. Football Insider highlights that if Norgaard fails to improve, a proven operator like Goretzka becomes essential for rotation and competition.​

Did Arsenal Try to Sign a Midfielder in January?

Yes, Arsenal pushed for reinforcements late in the winter window following Merino’s injury. Football Insider reports heavy links to Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali on deadline day, though no deal materialised. The North London club sought to bolster their squad urgently, but timing and valuations scuppered moves.​

This activity underscores Arteta’s proactive approach. Despite missing out, the pursuit signals ongoing midfield concerns, with Goretzka now eyed as a summer solution per the same outlet.​

What Did Arsenal Do About Goretzka in January?

Football Insider state that Arsenal expressed interest in signing Goretzka during the January window but stopped short of a concrete approach. Sources close to the club, as cited by the publication, confirmed internal discussions without escalation. This cautious stance allowed them to monitor developments while avoiding premature spending.​

The report emphasises sustained monitoring. Arsenal have maintained vigilance on the Bayern star, positioning themselves for a free transfer push as his contract nears expiry.​

Is Goretzka Really Leaving Bayern Munich?

Goretzka is set to depart Bayern Munich as a free agent at season’s end, according to Football Insider. Contract talks have stalled, with the player prioritising a new challenge after years of domestic dominance. His contributions this term, aiding Bayern’s title bid, have not swayed negotiations.​

At 31, Goretzka seeks regular football. Bayern’s stacked midfield, including rising stars, may prompt his exit, opening doors for Premier League suitors.​

Why Are Tottenham Hotspur Favourites for Goretzka?

Tottenham Hotspur currently lead the race for Goretzka’s signature, per Football Insider claims. The North London rivals’ advanced interest gives them an edge over Arsenal in this free-agent chase. Spurs’ need for midfield steel aligns perfectly with Goretzka’s profile.​

Purchasing the midfielder won’t be straightforward for Arteta’s side, the report warns. Tottenham’s proactive scouting has positioned them ahead, intensifying the intra-London battle.​

How Does Goretzka Fit into Arsenal’s Plans?

Goretzka’s box-to-box traits suit Arteta’s high-pressing system. Football Insider notes his success at Bayern, where he has triumphed in every major competition, translating to Premier League potential. Standing at 6ft 2in, his physicality aids set-pieces and duels, complementing Rice and Zubimendi.​

He could be a shrewd acquisition. With Norgaard’s future uncertain, Goretzka provides experience and leadership, bolstering Arsenal’s title aspirations.​

What Challenges Face Arsenal in This Transfer?

Competition from Tottenham poses the biggest hurdle. Football Insider underscores Spurs as favourites, demanding Arsenal accelerate efforts for a pre-contract agreement. Goretzka’s wages and agent demands could also complicate matters, despite no fee.​

Timing is critical. As the summer window looms, Arteta must convince the player of Arsenal’s project over rivals’ overtures.​

What is Goretzka’s Role at Bayern and Germany?

Goretzka has enjoyed great success at Bayern Munich over the years. Football Insider highlights his role in mounting a Bundesliga title charge this season, showcasing enduring quality. Internationally, he remains a key player for Germany, blending stamina with technical prowess.​

His trophy cabinet gleams. Every possible major competition graces it, from league titles to European glory, per the report.​

Will Arsenal Make a Concrete Approach This Summer?

It remains to be seen whether Arsenal make a concrete approach, Football Insider concludes. Their close monitoring suggests intent, but Tottenham’s favouritism adds intrigue. Arteta’s squad evolution hinges on midfield reinforcements amid injury woes.​

The transfer window will be fascinating. Goretzka’s availability as a free agent could spark a bidding war in signings, not fees.​

Broader Implications for North London Derby?

This saga intensifies Arsenal-Tottenham rivalry off the pitch. With Spurs favourites, a Goretzka snub would sting the Gunners, fuelling on-pitch motivation. Arteta’s recruitment acumen faces scrutiny against Ange Postecoglou’s bold strategy.​

Fans await developments. A successful swoop elevates Arsenal’s squad; failure underscores Premier League transfer ruthlessness.​

As a journalist with over a decade in news reporting, this story exemplifies the cut-throat world of football transfers, where injuries dictate strategy and free agents ignite derbies. Arsenal’s midfield rebuild is underway, but Goretzka’s destination hangs in balance.