Leroy Sane willing to accept pay cut to strike agreement with Bayern

Arsenal is reportedly in talks to sign Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane, in what could prove a shrewd move by Mikel Arteta’s side, Report informs via Express.

The Gunners are expected to splash the cash this summer, with reinforcements being eyed in all departments. The north London outfit is in the market for a goalkeeper, midfielder, striker and additional winger, though it is unclear whether they have the transfer budget to allow them to make marquee signings in each position.

Signing a world-class striker remains a priority at the Emirates Stadium, with Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak emerging as the two options being favoured by the Gunners. However, both players have significant price tags. Prising Isak away from Newcastle would require Arsenal to fork out at least £100 million, while Sporting frontman Gyokeres has a £58 million release clause.

Either signing would leave a mark on Arteta’s transfer budget, though Arsenal could be set to save money with Sane.

According to Sky Sports Germany, the Gunners have held concrete talks over signing Sane as a free agent at the end of the season.

Arsenal is described as ‘seriously interested’ in the German international, who is capable of playing on either flank.

Sane’s contract with Bayern expires at the end of the season and negotiations are ongoing over a new deal. There has been a sense of optimism around talks so far, though ‘internal sceptics’ are unsure about handing forward a fresh contract.

The ex-Manchester City star has scored nine goals and registered four assists in 23 Bundesliga appearances for Vincent Kompany’s side, and he remains a productive attacker.

Sane is also willing to accept a pay cut to strike an agreement with the club, but Bayern is yet to formally table an offer, and therefore, there remains a window of opportunity for his suitors to pounce and turn his head.

Despite Sane’s desire to remain at the Allianz Arena, acquiring the services of the 29-year-old would be a statement signing by the Gunners and have numerous positive effects, which include allowing the club to spend a bigger fee on a striker.

A decision from Bayern on their No. 10 is expected over the coming weeks, and Arteta will be eager to know the outcome of negotiations as soon as possible.