Arsenal consider bringing back ex-academy player who was involved in 18-goals last season

Oguzhan Ozyakup
Turkey's Oguzhan Ozyakup (L) vies for the ball with Iceland's Gylfy Sigthorrson (C) and Aron Gunnarsson (R) during the Euro 2016 Group A qualifying football match between Turkey and Iceland at the Konya Stadium in Konya on October 13, 2015. AFP PHOTO / STRINGER (Photo credit should read -/AFP/Getty Images)

Arsenal are considering bringing back former academy player Oguzhan Ozyakup who has gone onto achieve star status at Besiktas according to Goal.

Per the source, the Gunners are hopeful they can beat off interest from Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan.

Ozyakup left Arsenal four years ago after rising through the youth ranks and has established himself as one of the brightest talents in the Super Lig.

The 23-year-old contributed directly to 18 goals last season – 10 goals, 8 assists – playing a key role in the Black Eagles wining the league title and booking a place in the Champions League.

The former Arsenal youth is also a regular call up to the Turkish national team setup and has 23 international caps since making his debut in 2013.

The Gunners could however face stiff competition from Manchester United who the Daily Star report are willing to offer £20 million for his services after scouting the midfielder over the past 12 months.

Besiktas president Fikret Orman did not too long ago state that if Ozyakup were to leave he would not mind it being to United.

“When Ozyakup leaves Besiktas it will be for Manchester United, Barcelona or Real Madrid. A club of that calibre,” Orman was quoted as saying by Turkish-football.com.

However, both Arsenal and United would have to probably wait another 12 months before they can sign Ozyakup – unless an offer too good to refuse is made.

Speaking at Adriano’s signing ceremony Orman revealed said: “Ozyakup was come a long way in four years, he is our stay player and will stay this season and experience Champions League football as a star player.

“It has been a great pleasure to see him develop and he will be here this season but once his mission at Besiktas is complete he can decide his future. 

“I would love him to stay here until he retires but we will discuss his future next season.”

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