Liverpool And Arsenal Thwarted In £6m Striker Pursuit – Report

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has agreed to sign a new deal with Schalke, according to reports, with the striker turning down interest from Arsenal and Liverpool as he entered into the last six months of his deal with his current club.

Huntelaar was believed to be a target for both English sides as he goes from strength to strength for Schalke, particularly in the Champions League. In 23 appearances this season, he has so far scored nine times for the club, and has also scored twice in his last two matches for Holland.

Arsenal are thought to be considering improving on their attacking options, as Theo Walcott edges closer to an exit. The side have struggled in the Premier League this season, and though they are currently just two points off the top four, fans have been left disillusioned as Wenger prioritises qualifying for the Champions League over winning trophies.

But the Gunners manager has revealed that the club will have more money to spend in terms of transfers next year, and Huntelaar was believed to be one of the targets that Wenger would use to buck his trend of not spending big in January.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are in search of more firepower up front, and though the club are believed to be close to signing Daniel Sturridge and Tom Ince, a proven goalscorer will no doubt be high on Brendan Rodgers' transfer wishlist as he looks to bring in support for Luis Suarez.

But Metro and German news agency Der Westen are claiming that Huntelaar has decided that he wants to stay at Schalke, with discussions finally coming to an end after the Dutchman turned down two offers from his current club.

For Schalke, who are currently in the Champions League final 16 and looking a tough team to beat in Europe, it is a big coup to be able to hold on to their star striker, as Arsenal and Liverpool circled.

While either club can still negotiate over the purchase of Huntelaar, his price will now skyrocket from what is believed to be around £6 million.