Arsenal star Mesut Ozil could be offered escape from gang war hell with his representatives set to fly to DC United for transfer talks

MESUT OZIL'S horror run-in with a London gang could act as a catalyst to his move to DC United.

The Arsenal midfielder has sent his agents for talks with the MLS club after violent threats meant he was unable to participate in Sunday's trip to Newcastle.

Both he and Sead Kolasinac were besieged by knife-wielding yobs in North London last month, the Bosnian international defender dramatically fighting them off with his bare hands.

However the nightmare is far from over with the Gunners pair unable to play and under 24-hour protection.

Kolasinac's wife Bella has since fled to the couple's native Germany for her own safety.

Two men have since been arrested after an altercation with security staff outside Ozil's home.

And the situation has prompted the playmaker to seek an exit route of his own and push for a switch to the United States.

According to respected US journalist Steven Goff, Ozil could be the marquee name replacing former England star Wayne Rooney in DC.

Goff reports that: "One of Ozil's reps will meet with DCU officials next week in Washington."

IN ROO'S FOOTSTEPS

Ozil, 30, would have to take a pay-cut on his £350,000-a-week wages to move to the MLS.

LA Galaxy striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the league's top earner on a base wage of about £115k a week.

Any deal would make Ozil the marquee signing the DC United fans would expect following Rooney's departure back to England.

The striker, 33, has been convinced to move back to the UK by wife Coleen, who wants their four boys to grow up closer their home in Cheshire.

But he will stay at the MLS side for the rest of their season before heading to Derby as player-coach.

Rooney said: “I am very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with.

“I am looking forward to joining Phillip Cocu, his coaching staff and the first-team squad from the start of January.

“I am sure I can make a big contribution and can’t wait to meet everyone, especially the supporters.

“I am equally excited to begin my coaching career at Derby County working with both the first team and Academy.

“I must also take this opportunity to thank DC United, their owners, executives and supporters who have been superb to work with.

“I want them to know that I will give my all in support of our push for the play-offs.”