Arsenal wanted German international Nico Schlotterbeck during the January transfer window, but he has now moved to Borussia Dortmund.

Mikel Arteta trimmed his squad in the winter market, without making any signings and that eventually cost Arsenal as they finished fifth.

The Athletic report that the Spaniard wanted 22-year-old defender mid-season, but he opted to stay in Germany.

He has now agreed to leave Freiburg and join Dortmund, and will hope to go to the World Cup later this year in Qatar.

The report reads: Arsenal’s fans were scouring the media for news of a new striker in January but the club were also simultaneously pursuing a centre-back.

“Arteta wanted to add left-sided Germany international Nico Schlotterbeck to replace Pablo Mari, who joined Udinese on loan.

“Arsenal were advised Schlotterbeck’s preference was to remain in Germany and a few weeks ago, it was revealed he had signed for Borussia Dortmund.

“Arsenal will still be in the market for a left-sided central defender, should an appropriate opportunity arise. It will be interesting to see if William Saliba joins Arsenal’s stable of defenders next season: as of yet, no clear plans have been communicated to the Frenchman or his representatives.“

Last month, Tottenham were credited with an interest in Schlotterbeck, as they seek to improve their own defence in the summer window.

But both north London clubs will be left disappointed, although Dortmund’s record for developing players and selling them on likely means the defender will be on the market at some stage later in his career.

Saliba’s future may dictate whether Arsenal go for another senior central defensive option or go with what they have ahead of a season in the Europa League next time around.

Source:https://tbrfootball.com/report-mikel-arteta-wanted-arsenal-to-sign-22-year-old-but-now-hes-joined-borussia-dortmund/