According to Bleacher Report, DC United are keen on a deal for Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil as a replacement for Wayne Rooney who is set to join Derby County.
Rooney has agreed an 18-month deal with the Rams and will move in January.
The England international has been a standout figure in the MLS, and his impending departure leaves DC United looking to fill his shoes with another marquee signing.
And reports claim the club based in Washington DC have their eye on Ozil.
What has happened to Mesut Ozil this season?
The Arsenal playmaker moved to North London from Real Madrid in a deal with just over £42 million. At the time, he was the Gunners’ record transfer holder.
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Ozil has since been replaced Alexander Lacazzete and Nicholas Pepe as Arsenal’s record buy. However, the German remains the club’s highest paid player on £350k per week.
But this season he has been frozen out by manager Unai Emery. With just one Premier League appearance so far, his future at the Emirates is up in the air.
Ozil’s contract expires in 2021. The report adds the player isn’t pushing for an exit. However, his most likely destination should he leave will be across the Atlantic to the MLS.
Ozil has posted 43 goals and 74 assists during his time at Arsenal. At 31, he still has plenty to offer therefore it would be huge for DC United if they can pull off a deal this season.
Bleacher Report adds how discussions are expected to take place before the end of the year about how a deal to the MLS could materialise.
As for Derby, the Championship club have lacked creativity so far this season, yet Rooney’s arrival could be a potential springboard for a late surge for a top six spot.
Also see: Could confirmed National League release signal the end for ex Derby youth talent?
Also see: International player released by Derby could be in line for shock League Two transfer