Heldt refutes Draxler rumours

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt has refused to be drawn on speculation linking starlet Julian Draxler with a move to Borussia Dortmund.

The 19-year-old has been the subject of transfer speculation in recent weeks, with Dortmund among a number of clubs rumoured to be interested in the attacking midfielder.

However, Heldt was quick to stress that the club is not thinking about any potential sale, and that Draxler remains focused on Schalke’s goal of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League.

“I can say that Julian Draxler feels very well here and is on contract. Both sides, whether he or we want him to leave. That isn’t a topic for us, or for him,” Heldt said.

The 43-year-old’s message was echoed by head coach, Jens Keller, who was eager to switch attention to their upcoming clash with Hamburg rather than speculation.

He said: “All in the team know how important that game will be. Everyone who has a look at the table can guess how extremely important a victory on Sunday will be. The team is focused on the match, all the rumours about Julian don’t distract us. He is also very focused on the match.”

Heldt is aware of the problems Hamburg pose ahead of Sunday’s clash, Thorsten Fink’s side are just two points behind fourth placed Schalke, and he praised the Imtech Arena outfit for an impressive season.

“Hamburg had a lot of trouble in the last weeks, but despite this they have still a chance to reach Europe and even can get to the fourth place. That shows that their team is working,” Heldt explained.

“We want to win to get a little boost, we are above the line and have it in our hands.”