Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho targeting January deal for Arsenal midfielder Mesut Özil

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a January move for German midfielder Mesut Özil, according to Express.

The Premier League side, who defeated in-form Watford 2-1 at Vicarage Road on Saturday evening, have been linked with signing the Arsenal star during the forthcoming New Year transfer window.

The 29-year-old, who has 92 caps for Germany, but decided to retire from international duty earlier this summer, has scored one goal in four league games for The Gunners so far this season, netting against Newcastle United during yesterday’s 2-1 win at St James’ Park.

Özil, who joined Arsenal from La Liga giants Real Madrid back in September 2013 following his then club-record £42.5m transfer, has now scored 38 goals in 200 appearances in all competitions for The Gunners overall.

Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil celebrates scoring at Newcastle United on Saturday.

However, the report claims United manager Jose Mourinho is closely monitoring the German’s situation in North London, whilst weighing up a January move for the central midfielder.

New Arsenal head coach Unai Emery has already urged the £350,000-a-week player to justify his wages at the Emirates and perform on a more consistent basis within the five league fixtures of the 2018-19 Premier League campaign.

Özil is contracted at Arsenal until June 2021, and is valued at £40.5m.

Written by Dan Church Follow @DJChurch94