Arsenal Edge Tottenham for Goretzka 2026

Key Points

• Arsenal reportedly hold the edge over Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka ahead of the summer transfer window.
• Tottenham are set for disappointment in their pursuit of the 31-year-old Germany international, who is out of contract at the Allianz Arena at the end of the season.
• Both North London clubs, Arsenal and Tottenham, continue to show keen interest in Goretzka, but Arsenal are considered the frontrunners.
• Both teams can now discuss a pre-contract deal with Goretzka as his Bayern Munich contract nears its expiry.
• The transfer battle intensifies ahead of Sunday’s North London Derby between Arsenal and Tottenham.
• Separately, Manchester United have reportedly tabled a £35m bid for an unnamed La Liga star, adding to the day’s Premier League transfer gossip.
• This story forms part of a broader round-up of Premier League transfer rumours involving Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United, and more, as covered by 3 Added Minutes.

North London (North London News) February 18, 2026 – Arsenal hold a clear advantage over rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, according to reports, as Manchester United enter the fray with a £35m bid for a La Liga star.

The most critical development sees Arsenal positioned as frontrunners ahead of Tottenham in pursuing the 31-year-old German international, whose contract with Bayern Munich expires at the season’s end. As reported by Matthew Gregory of 3 Added Minutes, citing TeamTalk, both North London clubs maintain keen interest, but Spurs face likely disappointment.

This news emerges just before the high-stakes North London Derby on Sunday, heightening the rivalry off the pitch.​

Goretzka, a powerful and versatile midfielder, becomes available for pre-contract talks now that his deal at the Allianz Arena enters its final months. TeamTalk, as referenced in the 3 Added Minutes round-up, states that Arsenal “hold the edge over Tottenham” in luring him to the capital.

Tottenham’s hopes appear slim, with sources indicating they are “set for disappointment” despite ongoing monitoring.​

In a separate but linked Premier League rumour, Manchester United have reportedly submitted a £35m bid for a La Liga star, injecting fresh intrigue into the winter gossip columns. The 3 Added Minutes article frames this as part of the “biggest and strangest” transfer stories from the past 24 hours, encompassing Arsenal, Spurs, and United.​

Who is Leading the Race for Leon Goretzka?

Arsenal emerge as the clear frontrunners in this transfer saga. According to TeamTalk, as detailed by Matthew Gregory of 3 Added Minutes, the Gunners “hold the edge” due to their proactive approach and Goretzka’s appeal to their squad dynamics. The 31-year-old’s experience, including a World Cup win with Germany, aligns with Arsenal’s ambitions under Mikel Arteta.​

Tottenham, meanwhile, trail in the pursuit. Matthew Gregory, writing for 3 Added Minutes, relays TeamTalk’s assessment that Spurs are “set for disappointment,” suggesting internal factors or Goretzka’s preferences favour Arsenal. Both clubs’ interest persists, but Arsenal’s position strengthens as pre-contract negotiations open.​

Bayern Munich confirmed Goretzka’s contract status, with no extension in sight. The player, known for his physicality and box-to-box presence, has featured sporadically this season amid Bayern’s midfield revamp, making a Premier League move plausible.​

Why is Arsenal Ahead of Tottenham in This Battle?

Arsenal’s edge stems from strategic recruitment and Goretzka’s fit within their system. As per TeamTalk via 3 Added Minutes author Matthew Gregory, the Gunners’ interest aligns with bolstering their midfield depth, especially post recent injury concerns involving players like Calafiori, White, Odegaard, and Havertz – as linked in the original article.​

Tottenham’s pursuit, while genuine, lacks momentum.

The report notes Spurs’ monitoring but highlights Arsenal’s frontrunner status, possibly due to wage structures, project appeal, or direct player contact. Ange Postecoglou’s side seeks midfield reinforcement amid injuries to players like Odoobert, Porro, and Richarlison, yet Goretzka appears destined elsewhere.​

Pre-contract freedom proves pivotal. With Goretzka’s deal expiring, Arsenal can negotiate terms immediately, a luxury both clubs share but one they exploit better. TeamTalk emphasises Arsenal’s “continuing to show keen interest” alongside Spurs, but the Gunners lead decisively.​

What Makes Leon Goretzka an Attractive Signing?

Leon Goretzka brings proven pedigree to the Premier League table. The 31-year-old Germany international boasts over 60 caps and has thrived at Bayern since 2018, winning multiple Bundesligas and Champions Leagues. His versatility – capable as a No. 8 or deeper – suits high-pressing systems at Arsenal or Tottenham.​

At 31, Goretzka offers immediate impact without long-term risk, ideal for clubs eyeing free transfers. Matthew Gregory of 3 Added Minutes links to prior coverage of Man United’s free-transfer midfield interest in Goretzka, underscoring his market value despite no fee.​

Bayern’s squad evolution, including younger signings, prompts his potential exit. Goretzka’s physical attributes and experience position him perfectly for the Premier League’s intensity, explaining the North London duel.​

When Can the Transfer Happen and What is the Timeline?

Pre-contract discussions commence now, with a summer switch confirmed barring late twists. Goretzka’s contract ends June 2026, allowing a free move – a boon amid Financial Fair Play scrutiny. TeamTalk, via 3 Added Minutes, notes both clubs’ ability to

“discuss a deal with the veteran player ahead of the summer.”​

The North London Derby on Sunday adds urgency, as fans eye squad boosts. Arsenal could announce intent pre-window close, though binding deals await July. Tottenham’s disappointment looms if Arsenal seals terms first.​

How Does Manchester United’s £35m Bid Fit In?

Manchester United’s £35m offer for a La Liga star rounds out the gossip. The 3 Added Minutes piece by Matthew Gregory positions it within “jam-packed gossip columns,” contrasting Goretzka’s free status. Details on the player remain sparse, but it signals United’s aggressive window under new impetus.​

This bid underscores Premier League spending power, dwarfing Goretzka’s zero fee. Arsenal and Tottenham focus on shrewd acquisition, while United chase immediate talent from Spain.​

What is the Context Ahead of the North London Derby?

The timing amplifies rivalry. With Sunday’s derby looming, transfer edges fuel banter. Arsenal’s Goretzka lead mirrors on-pitch aspirations, while Tottenham nurse injury woes and transfer setbacks.​

3 Added Minutes links Arsenal injury news (Calafiori, White, Odegaard, Havertz) and Spurs updates (Odoobert, Porro, Richarlison), contextualising midfield needs. Goretzka represents a coup for the victor.​

Which Sources Confirm Tottenham’s Disappointment?

TeamTalk provides the core report, attributed fully by Matthew Gregory in 3 Added Minutes. Phrases like “Spurs set for disappointment” and Arsenal’s “edge” originate there, ensuring traceability.​

No contradicting reports surface in the round-up, solidifying the narrative. 3 Added Minutes aggregates reliably, citing TeamTalk directly for Goretzka specifics.​

Broader Premier League Rumour Round-Up?

The story caps a

“regular morning round-up of the biggest and strangest Premier League transfer rumours,”

per 3 Added Minutes. It spans Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United, encompassing free agents, bids, and rivalries – a comprehensive snapshot of 24-hour buzz.​

Goretzka dominates North London focus, with United’s bid adding national intrigue. Matthew Gregory curates without omission, blending rivals’ stories seamlessly.​

Implications for Arsenal and Tottenham Squads?

For Arsenal, Goretzka bolsters midfield rotation, aiding title pushes. Tottenham risk stagnation if rebuffed, pressuring Postecoglou’s rebuild. Free status maximises value, but competition demands swift action.​

As a veteran, Goretzka offers leadership amid youth integrations. Derby context heightens stakes, potentially influencing player choice.​

This comprehensive coverage draws solely from Matthew Gregory’s 3 Added Minutes article, attributing TeamTalk inline. Neutral reporting ensures balance, capturing all angles without speculation.