BBC: Brentford want more than £60m for Arsenal target Kevin Schade

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Arsenal are among the clubs keeping tabs on Brentford forward Kevin Schade, though any move would come at a hefty price. The BBC reports that the Bees could demand more than £60m before sanctioning his exit.

Schade has established himself as one of Brentford's most important attacking players over the past couple of seasons, with his performances in the Premier League drawing interest from several top flight clubs. The German international has continued to show his quality on a regular basis, and that consistency has not gone unnoticed at the Emirates.

Arsenal weighing up a move

According to the report, Arsenal are monitoring Schade's situation as part of their broader efforts to strengthen the squad's attacking options. There is said to be a belief at the club that the forward could be open to a move away from Brentford if the right opportunity arose.

That would offer some encouragement to Arsenal, who are not thought to be alone in their admiration. Other Premier League clubs are reportedly keeping an eye on his progress too, which could complicate matters if talks were to advance.

Schade's growing reputation has been boosted further by his involvement with the German national team, adding to a profile that has made him a player of interest well beyond west London.

Brentford's valuation a stumbling block

Brentford have built a reputation for driving hard bargains when it comes to selling their best players, and Schade looks set to be no exception. The BBC reports that the Bees could ask for a fee in excess of £60m, a figure that reflects both his importance to the team and the inflated market for proven Premier League performers.

Such an asking price would represent a significant outlay for Arsenal, who would need to assess whether Schade's qualities justify that level of investment compared to other targets being considered. Brentford have shown little willingness in the past to let key assets leave below their valuation, and there is no indication that stance will soften in this case.

Arsenal will have to decide how far they are willing to go to secure his signature, with Brentford's valuation likely to be the deciding factor in whether any deal can be struck. For now, the north London club's interest remains at the monitoring stage, with no indication that formal talks have begun.