Leverkusen boss Rudi Völler responds to Julian Draxler links
Rudi Völler isn't surprised that Julian Draxler is now being linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen.
Paris Saint-Germain Julian Draxler has been touted as a possible replacement for his German compatriot Kai Havertz at Bayer Leverkusen after the 21-year-old's move to Chelsea in a deal worth a total of €100 million including add-ons.
Draxler, 26, struggled to nail down a starting berth in the French capital last season, plays in a similar position to Havertz and was recently advised to look for more playing time elsewhere by Germany coach Joachim Löw.
All these things considered, it's no surprise to Völler that Draxler is being linked with a move to BayArena.
"It's clear how something like this comes up. He has just played two games in a row for the national team, has one year left on his contract with Paris, doesn't play as often as he would like, and the national team coach advises him to find a new club," Völler told the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger and added:
"He is a great player, who plays in a similar position to Kai Havertz. So this speculation is understandable, and it will certainly continue in the coming weeks."
Leverkusen sealed the capture of Patrik Schick from AS Roma on Tuesday and are planning to add further signings to their squad, although they will not look to re-invest the full proceeds from Havertz's sale.
"It goes without saying that we will not spend the full amount for got for Kai. In difficult time, we have to act with a sense of proportion and in a financially justifiable manner," said Völler.
"We will certainly bring in another player or two, but we will not spend as much as many people might believe."