Bayer Leverkusen chief makes huge Patrik Schick claim as Arsenal striker target pens long-term contract

Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller claims Patrik Schick is ‘one of the best centre-forwards in the world’ after the rumoured Arsenal target penned a new long-term contract in Germany.

Schick hit 13 goals in 36 matches during the 2020-21 season, and that set him up for a stellar campaign with Czech Republic at Euro 2020. He bagged five goals in as many matches as they reached the quarter-finals of the tournament, with the run being ended by Denmark.

Schick has done even better this term, notching 24 goals and five assists in just 31 appearances. That includes Bundesliga braces against Eintracht Frankfurt and Hoffenheim, as well as four goals in one game during a 7-1 thrashing of Greuther Furth.

The in-form 26-year-old has been linked with Arsenal to solve the Gunners’ striker problem. They need a new hitman as Alexandre Lacazette could leave for free this summer.

But it seems Schick won’t be playing under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal any time soon. The player has signed a new deal with Leverkusen which should keep him at the club until 2027.

The German outfit finished third in the Bundesliga this season. And Champions League qualification was a big factor in Schick’s decision to stay.

“I just feel good here, but above all, our team is a promise for the future,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun with these guys and we really want to tear something up.

“Qualifying for the Champions League is a good next step. A lot is possible here, which is exactly why I extended my contract at Bayer 04.”

Voller, who will leave Leverkusen in the summer, went on to call Schick ‘one of the best centre-forwards in the world’. “Renewing with such a player is an expression of our ambitions and a clear sign that things will continue at the top