December saw claims from the German media that Arsenal were keeping an eye on Julian Brandt ahead of the January transfer window. Gunners scouts were said to be on the case, and the potential transfer was thought to be the subject of chatter at the club.
The winter market came and went, with Brandt staying at Borussia Dortmund and a move to the Premier League not looking close at any point through the month.
Arsenal were then linked again in March, and at the end of April it was claimed the interest was still in place and Brandt could be a cheaper option for Mikel Arteta’s side than a permanent move for Martin Odegaard.
Brandt is a good friend of Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, with the two playing together at Beyer Leverkusen. They appeared on the same team 175 times, and, speaking to Germany’s Sport1, Leno has been asked if he contacted Brandt after hearing the rumours of a potential move to the London club.
Leno made it clear he certainly did: “I read the rumours with Arsenal and wrote him a few messages right away. But I don’t know what is really there. In any case, I would be happy if he would come.
“Jule is a good friend, we had a very good time in Leverkusen and privately we were often out for one or two beers. Maybe we can experience that again in the future. He’s also invited to my wedding, which unfortunately couldn’t take place this year. We will make up for that next year.”
Agent Leno has certainly played his part.
