United and Chelsea Playmaker Target Honoured by European Offers

Schalke midfielder Julian Draxler has said he is honoured and delighted at being linked with top clubs across Europe. The 19-year-old has been in impressive form for the German side, attracting widespread interest.

The playmaker has been linked to Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal, while Real Madrid and the two Milan clubs are also understood to be keen on his services.

"I know there are offers from some of the top European clubs. I think that is an honour," talkSPORT quoted Draxler as saying.

However, signing the midfielder in the summer could be a difficult task for all suitors as the player claims "everything is imaginable" regarding a contract extension with his current employers. Plus, Schalke's general manager Horst Heldt admitted the club is determined to keep Draxler at the Veltins-Arena beyond this summer.

Draxler is currently under contract with the Bundesliga club until 2016 and the player had previously stated that he is happy at Schalke.

"It's great to get inquiries. But I feel good at Schalke and want to take my career forward," the midfielder said.

Ferdinand Confident of England Call

Meanwhile, United defender Rio Ferdinand remains confident Roy Hodgson will pick him for the England squad in the future. The central defender was selected for the Three Lions' World Cup qualifier against San Marino. However, the ex-West Ham man backed out of the squad, leaving Hodgson disappointed.

"The manager has made it clear he will consider me for other England squads. I spoke to the manager and I think it's down to him. I met the boss in London and we spoke about my regime and what I've done at the last few international breaks," Ferdinand explained.

"This is the same. I've been pencilled in to have certain treatments, had them then I've come away to have some rest time and to recuperate and get myself ready. I think obviously the situation with myself and the national team is well documented. But this isn't something that I'm doing differently. This is something I've done in past international get-togethers when I've not been involved," the defender added.