Arsenal close in on Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender

Arsenal are reportedly keeping an eye on Bayer Leverkusen defensive midfielder Lars Bender over the potential January move, as they look to strengthen their squad, according to Sport.

The Gunners, who failed to land anyone during the summer transfer window as a result they are struggling in holding midfield and central defence department, therefore Arsene Wenger is keen to bring in some new talents to the Emirates when the transfer window reopens in January.

The report claims that the Gunners have reportedly made and initial inquiries about the Germany international with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen over a possible move in January.

Bender, 25, has been seen as the perfect candidate at the Emirates, whose current contract runs until June 2019 – meaning the Gunners have to pay around £20million for his signature.