Schalke target Julian Draxler stay beyond 2014

Schalke 04 general manager Horst Heldt is hopeful that star man Julian Draxler will remain at the club beyond the end of next season.

The 19-year-old, who recently signed a new contract in Gelsenkirchen until 2018, is one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe and has attracted interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Draxler's new deal contains a £39m release clause, but Heldt is hoping that they can persuade the German international midfielder to stay with the Royal Blues.

"It is definitely possible that Julian will play another season here," Heldt told Bild.

"He could indeed get even better [next season] and have even more offers, but Schalke also have the potential to develop further. I don't see that a 2014 switch will automatically happen."

Draxler is eager to secure a place in the Germany squad for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.