Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of German international Julian Draxler for a fee believed to be £34million from Wolfsburg.
Draxler, who had been a long-time target of Arsenal, has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with PSG – committing his future to the club until 2021.
The 23-year-old has struggled to produce his best form for Wolfsburg this season in what has largely been a disappointing campaign for the Bundesliga club.
However, he is still viewed as one of Europe’s top young talents and PSG have moved decisively to secure the winger’s signature so early in the January transfer window.
‘It is with great joy and anticipation that I join Paris Saint-Germain,’ said Draxler, in a statement released by the French club on Tuesday.
‘For the first time in my career, I’m going to discover a new country, a new league, and I’m very proud to take this new step at a club which has become a benchmark in Europe and has signed a lot of great players in recent years. I will do everything to help PSG win new trophies and continue to grow internationally.’
Draxler is already an established international and has made 27 appearances for Germany, scoring three goals.
He was part of Joachim Low’s squad that triumphed in Brazil and also featured for Die Mannschaft at Euro 2016.
Although Germany suffered a disappointing semi-final exit in France, Draxler showed glimpses of the form which convinced Wolfsburg to sign him for £30m as a replacement for Manchester City-bound Kevin De Bruyne in 2015.
However, the winger has largely struggled to fulfil his potential in a Wolfsburg team that has failed to compete with the top clubs in Germany for the last two seasons.
Draxler’s arrival at the Parc des Princes could pave the way for Jese Rodriguez to leave the club, either on loan or on a permanent deal.
The former Real Madrid forward has endured a difficult season in France and PSG boss Unai Emery has hinted he is willing to let the 23-year-old leave, should a suitable loan move or offer come in for the Spaniard.
