Arsène Wenger is keeping tabs on the immediate future of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender, after Chelsea declared their interest in prime target Sami Khedira.

The German midfielder, whose twin brother Sven plays for Borussia Dortmund, is only 25 years-old, therefore any deal that is to be concluded will cost the Gunners dearly in their quest to improve their squad ahead of the new season.

Heads and Shoulders above

Bender’s role as a versatile midfielder, but predominately a defensive player, is confirmed by statistics showing that he is stronger than his Arsenal transfer rivals Khedira, Morgan Schneiderlin and current star Mikel Arteta.

Statistics from Squawka prove that based on winning tackles, aerial duels and clearing the ball, the German is head and shoulders above the others.

Injury Worries

Despite these facts, his injury woes are something that may hamper a chance of a summer move, as well as obtaining a wage increase that competes with other Arsenal stars.

While many claim that Wenger’s men are in no urgent need of another midfielder, the club are keen not to have a repeat of last season, where too many key players were injured in the middle of the park at a crucial part of the campaign.

Conflicting Interests

The Gunners are certain to add another defensive player and goalkeeper to their ranks, therefore it seems likely that their interest in the player will be at bay until they have secured more crucial additions to the squad.

Bender is a tidy and statistically pleasing player, but with Arsenal already struggling to accommodate all their players in starting positions, it is likely that the club will not pursue his signature this summer.

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