Julian Draxler: Urged to stay at Schalke by the club's chairman

The highly-rated winger has been linked with a move to a host of European clubs during the current transfer window, notably Arsenal and Chelsea, after catching the eye again this season.

Draxler, who is a Germany international, has previously denied that he would be leaving Schalke this month, but reports have suggested that the Gunners would be prepared to meet his release clause which believed to be in the region of £40million.

Schalke are currently seventh in the German top flight and a tie with Real Madrid awaits them in the Champions League first knockout round.

Tonnies says he is optimistic of keeping hold of the 20-year-old and thinks that it would also be beneficial for the youngster to remain at his current club.

"I am of the opinion he should also be with us next season," Tonnies told BILD.

"It would be my personal advice. He can play his best football without any big pressure and at our club he would have a clear mind.

"He is very much in good hands playing for Schalke 04. My general advice for everyone would be to stop making Julian mad."

Tonnies also dismissed suggestions that failure to secure Champions League football for next season could leave the club with no choice but to sell Draxler.

"We would not be forced to sell Julian if we fail to qualify for the UEFA Champions League of next season," he said.

"Our financial plans are not based on taking part in that competition. We could still sleep easy."