The Julian Draxler transfer story has turned into a soap opera in less than 48 hours.
Speaking to German newspaper Bild, Draxler said: “For me it is so that I have expressed myself clearly after the Euros, with Dieter Hecking, that I want to leave Wolfsburg. The coach knows for more than three weeks.
“Two days after the semi-final at the European Championships I told him how I see the whole situation and what I want – which is to leave the club.”
Within 24 hours, Wolfsburg had published an official response.
‘VfL Wolfsburg wish to make it absolutely clear that at no time did those responsible at the club make either written nor oral commitments on the transfer of Julian Draxler within the current transfer period, which is due to end on August 31st, 2016. This is reiterated by a contractual release clause agreed upon with Julian Draxler and his management, which does not come into effect until summer 2017.
VfL Wolfsburg will not be selling Julian Draxler during the course of the current transfer period.
In joint discussions with Julian Draxler, VfL Wolfsburg again made it clear that they would not be granting the player’s wish to make a move. We now consider any possible uncertainties to have been eradicated and that all parties can revert back to a professional and responsible collaboration for the good of VfL Wolfsburg and, in particular, for our fans.’
Then on Wednesday evening, The Independent dragged Everton into the situation: ‘Everton have made an ambitious approach to sign Wolfsburg’s Germany international Julian Draxler.
The 22-year-old declared on Wednesday morning that he wants to leave Wolfsburg, putting Europe’s top clubs on alert, but it is Ronald Koeman’s newly-rich side who have made the first move.’
The Independent believe Draxler has a €75m release clause, which is the same as what is reported in Germany. However, in Germany it’s clear that clause is only applicable next summer, which would fit in with Wolfsburg’s statement.
Any move this year would have to be without a clause, and maybe Wolfsburg would want even more. Perhaps it’s not the best idea for Everton to waste too much time on this one.
