Arsenal Digging for Dortmund Star Julian Brandt for Free Transfer
Arsenal are looking closely at a smart summer deal. They want to bring in the player from Borussia Dortmund, Julian Brandt, without paying a transfer fee. His contract ends in June 2026, and he is set to leave as a free agent. This news has excited fans because it could add quality and depth to Mikel Artetaโs squad.
Who Is Julian Brandt?
Julian Brandt is a 29-year-old German attacking midfielder. He was born in Bremen on May 2, 1996. He stands tall at 1.85 metres and plays with great skill. Brandt can line up as a No.10 in the middle or on the wings. He is quick, creative, and loves to pass or shoot from distance.
He started his career at Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Dortmund in 2019 for about โฌ25 million. Brandt has played nearly 300 games for Dortmund. He has scored over 50 goals and given many assists. He also plays for the Germany national team and has won titles like the DFB-Pokal. Fans know him as a clever player who can change a game with one pass.
Brandtโs Time at Dortmund
Brandt spent seven good years at Borussia Dortmund. He helped the team in big matches and showed steady form. This season, he has started many games and added goals and assists.
But now things are changing. Dortmundโs bosses said they will not offer him a new contract. Sporting director Lars Ricken thanked Brandt for his hard work and said the club wants a fresh direction. Brandt himself wants to try football abroad for the first time. He speaks Spanish well and has a Spanish girlfriend, so places like England or Spain appeal to him. The reports say he turned down offers from the Premier League in January but is now ready to move.
Why Arsenal Are Interested Now
Mikel Arteta needs more options in attack and midfield. Injuries and form dips have shown gaps behind stars like Martin รdegaard. Brandt can play in those spots and also cover on the wings if needed. Arsenalโs sporting director Andrea Berta is said to be involved in talks. Some reports even say Arsenal are leading the race ahead of clubs like Barcelona.
Brandt would not be the first-choice starter but would give great cover. He could help sell or rotate players like Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli. This smart move would free up cash for bigger signings elsewhere.
What Brandt Could Bring to Arsenal
Brandt is experienced and ready for the Premier League. His vision and technique match Arsenalโs fast, passing style. At 29, he is in his prime and can play 20-30 games a season as a strong backup. The fans would get a player who has faced top teams in Germany and Europe. He could add goals from midfield and help in big Champions League nights. Plus, as a free signing, it is a low-risk deal with high reward.

Challenges and Competition
Nothing is certain yet. Arsenal would offer him a good salary and signing bonus to beat other clubs. Barcelona also like him because they need cheap options. Brandt must decide if London is the right next step.
He might not play every week, which could worry a player used to starting. But for a chance to win big trophies with Arsenal, many believe he would say yes. Dortmund are already looking for his replacement, maybe even bringing back Jadon Sancho.
What Happens Next?
The talks could start soon after the season ends. Arsenal hope to wrap up a deal quickly so Brandt joins in pre-season. If it happens, it would be another clever step in Artetaโs plan to build a title-winning team.