Why Leeds United signing Julian Draxler would be a massive coup

According to claims from French outlet RMC Sport (h/t Express), Leeds United have made an enquiry regarding the availability of Paris Saint-Germain attacker Julian Draxler. 

As per the report, PSG sporting director Leonardo is willing to offload the Germany international this summer after he was afforded just 22 appearances in all competitions by manager Thomas Tuchel last term.

The 26-year-old, though, is keen to remain at the French capital to help his team secure more silverware after winning three Ligue 1 titles. (RMC Sport h/t Express)

Profile

It seems hard to believe that Julian Draxler is still only 26, simply because he has been around at the highest level for almost a decade. The attacking midfielder rose through the youth ranks of Schalke and made his Bundesliga debut way back during the 2010-11 campaign.

Draxler established himself as one of the most promising young playmakers in Germany during his time at Schalke, accumulating an impressive tally of 30 goals and 29 assists in 170 appearances across all competitions.

The right-footed creative wizard had a brief stint at Wolfsburg before moving across the continent to join French giants PSG back in January 2017. Draxler has struggled to nail down a regular starting role at the French capital due to stiff competition for places. But he has still managed an impressive return of 20 goals and 32 assists in 140 appearances.

A full international for Germany since 2012, Draxler was a part of the squad that lifted the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and captained his nation to a triumphant campaign at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, bagging the Golden Ball award in the process.

Draxler can have a transformative impact on Leeds’ fortunes

Leeds United have already sent out a strong message to their top-flight rivals with big-money deals for Rodrigo Moreno and Robin Koch in the summer window as the West Yorkshire giants prepare themselves for a long-awaited return to the forefront of English football.

It is never enough for any club to have just one top-quality creative player in their attack. Pablo Hernandez boasts an impressive track record in the PL from his days at Swansea but the Spaniard is nearing his twilight at 35. 

Thus, Leeds need to target another creative player before the summer deadline. And it goes without saying that a seasoned campaigner like Julian Draxler would make an excellent addition to Bielsa’s ranks at Elland Road.

A proven performer at the highest level, the Germany stalwart has got all the experience and quality in his locker to come through the door as an instant upgrade on the Whites’ existing attacking options. Plus, his versatility to play as a No.10, as well as on the flanks, would certainly improve the manager’s squad dynamics. 

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Verdict

Leeds have already landed themselves a playmaking forward in Rodrigo and a potential deal for Julian Draxler could bring the best out of the Spaniard next season. The 26-year-old still has several years remaining in his prime. And with his contract set to expire in 2021, Leeds should look to negotiate a suitable fee for the German.