Per Mertersacker: Arsenal squad would "welcome" Julian Draxler

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has claimed that the whole squad would "welcome" the signing of Schalke 04's Julian Draxler.

The Gunners have reportedly made an offer for the attacking midfielder as they try to boost their squad this transfer window, and the German international has said that his compatriot would be an ideal signing.

"We would love to welcome a player like Draxler, he is so young and already plays a huge role in Schalke and in the national team," Mertesacker told German website Spox.

"But there is lots of talking about possible transfers, I am curious about what is going to happen.

"We already have a little German academy here and I learned that German discipline and talents are very appreciated here [in London]."

The Gunners are currently top of the Premier League.