Schalke eager to keep hold of Draxler

Bundesliga side Schalke are doing everything in their power to prevent star player Julian Draxler from leaving the club.

The 19-year-old has quickly developed into a key footballer at Veltins Arena, which in turn saw some of Europe’s top clubs cast admiring at the youngster.

Schalke chief Horst Heldt says the club are hoping to ward off interest from European giants and persuade Draxler to stay on for as long as possible.

“We want him to stay for as long as possible. We must make sure that he feels good,” club general manager told Bild.

Draxler has a contract until June 2016 at Veltins Arena, but there is every chance he will be offered a new and improved deal by the end of the current campaign.

Schalke chiefs are aware the midfielder will only decide to stay if the Miners continue to progress, and Champions League qualification could be crucial to their chances of keeping hold of Draxler.

Schalke currently occupy the final Champions League berth in German Bundesliga, but they face a stiff challenge from Eintracht Frankfurt and Hamburger SV.