Schalke manager desperate to keep pair in Germany

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt says the club are working overtime to ensure Lewis Holtby and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar remain in Germany and do not move to the Premier League.

Both players' contracts expire at the end of the current season and numerous sides in England are keen.

Everton and Arsenal are interested in German international midfielder Holtby, who has hinted he would be up for a move to the Premier League.

Prolific striker Huntelaar, meanwhile, is wanted by Liverpool and Tottenham.

But Schalke are trying to tie two of their man stars to new long-term deals and Heldt is optimistic they will commit to the club.

When pressed about each players' situation and rumours Holtby is ready to sign, Heldt said: "I cannot confirm today's headlines in the media about Lewis Holtby but we're in a constant, good exchange.

"We're in intensive talks with Holtby and Huntelaar and want to extend both contracts."