Sneaky: Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy (Picture: Reuters)

Arsenal’s hopes of signing Julian Draxler have hit a further obstacle with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy ready to block Lewis Holtby’s loan to Schalke.

The Germans had former midfielder Holtby lined-up as a potential replacement for Draxler should the playmaker join the Gunners, but Spurs chief Levy is intent on scuppering the move.

Levy was said to be furious with ‘partner club’ Real Madrid for selling Arsenal Mesut Ozil in the summer after he agreed to the world record transfer of Gareth Bale and doesn’t want to do anything else to indirectly aid his rivals.

MORE: Spurs and Holtby hold key to Draxler deal


Arsenal target: Schalke’s Julian Draxler (Picture: AP)

Draxler replacement: Lewis Holtby (Picture: Getty Images)

Holtby’s arrival has since sparked the Gunners into an unlikely title challenge, while Spurs have lagged behind the chasing pack, despite spending £100million on new signings.



With Levy intent not to play any further role in strengthening the Gunners, according to the Daily Mirror, he is prepared to veto Holtby’s return to Schalke until he’s sure there’s no chance of Arsenal landing Draxler in the current window.

MORE: Arsenal’s Draxler hopes hit by injury blow