Schalke interested in signing Kolasinac on loan
Schalke are interested in signing Sead Kolasinac on loan but his wages appear to be a stumbling block, according to German media outlet Sky Deutschland.
The Bosnian full back played for the German club for six years from 2011 to 2017 and remains a fan favourite at Schalke. He signed for Arsenal on a free transfer in the summer of 2017 but his move to North London has not been a resounding success.
Kolasinac’s place in Arsenal’s starting eleven is far from guaranteed. Kieran Tierney appears to be the North London side’s undisputed first choice left back. The 27 year old has been utilised by Arteta on the left side of a back three at times this season but with Gabriel’s impending arrival at the Emirates, it is unlikely he will get too much game time in central defence this season.
The player is believed to be considering a move back to Germany for personal reasons. Initial conversations regarding a potential loan move have taken place between all three parties. The main hurdle to getting the deal over the line remains the defender’s wages.
The two clubs and Kolasinac’s representatives have discussed the possibility of a loan deal where both sides would split the player’s salary. Schalke would, however, require the Bosnia and Herzegovina international to take a wage cut as they have been financially impacted by the pandemic and cannot afford to pay half of his salary. They do not want to pay the player more than their internally agreed upon wage limit of £2.25 million a year. Kolasinac’s current annual salary, however, is £7.2 million.
Talks between the involved parties are believed to be at early stages but a move cannot be ruled out. Schalke are determined to explore every possibility to see if they can welcome Kolasinac back to the club.
According to Mark Mann-Bryans of PA Media, there have been no talks or offers for Sead Kolasinac who is happy to stay at Arsenal.
One of the best news today
They should take him for free