Schalke's players expect teammate Leon Goretzka to leave in 2018.

The Germany midfielder is off contract in June and has been linked with Manchester United, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

The 22 year-old has so far refused to consider talks over a new deal.

Schalke captain Ralf Fahrmann said: "I'd like him to stay here for a long time. But you also have to be honest. A man with his qualities is difficult to keep in the long run.

"In the long run, he will land at one of the top clubs. The only question is when?"