Arsène Wenger is keen to test how high Bayer Leverkusen rate their prized possession Lars Bender, with an imminent bid to shore up his midfield ahead of the new campaign.

If at first you don’t succeed

Bender, 25, is not on international duty with Germany in Brazil after a thigh injury ruled him out the World Cup. This may drive down his valuation in the summer transfer market, much to the delight of the Arsenal boss.

The Gunners reportedly had a bid of £15 million rejected last summer, but after talks fell through, they spent almost triple the sum on Bender’s compatriot, Mesut Özil.

21 million reasons to sign him

Despite Bender’s injury and the fact that he signed a new contract with the Bundesliga club only in October, The Metro and Express claim that Arsenal are ready to put in a £21 million bid, which would be considered by the midfielders club.

With 17 appearances for the German national team and 127 for his club, Bender has been given rave reviews around Europe for his approach to the game.

With £100 million reportedly at Arsène Wenger’s disposal this summer, it is thought that he would like to spend a portion of that on an all round midfielder to strengthen the core of his side.

Too many cooks spoil the broth

With Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini at the latter stages of their careers at The Emirates, coupled with the uncertainty of Abou Diaby’s long-term future at the club, Bender would be a perfect addition to a squad who will be looking to build on their FA Cup win in May.

Regardless, the re-emergence of Aaron Ramsey, as well as the presence of Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Mesut Özil, Tomas Rosicky, Santi Cazorla and even Serge Gnabry, it is up for debate whether the club would risk disgruntling the players for the sake of signing a similar professional.

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