Barcelona
are set to beat Arsenal for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender, according
to Daily Mirror.
Arsenal have been targeting Lars Bender since the summer but still could not conclude
his deal. With Barca entering the race for the 25-year-old star, Arsenal are likely
to lose the race in the summer.
Mirror
reported earlier today that Barcelona are keen to sign Bender in the summer as
they have made him their top target.
Bender
has been a regular player for the Bundesliga outfit. He has made 23 appearances
so far this term in all competitions.
While Arsenal
have shortlisted several midfielders for the summer but are keen to sign the
German international.
Arsenal
have also shortlisted Ilkay Gundogan of Borussia Dortmund but Morgan Schneiderlin
deal is likely to happen immediately after the season.
The
French boss is confident that the player will prefer a move to Arsenal.
Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester Untied have also been keepings tabs on the
player.
While reports have already suggested that Arsenal have agreed a deal for Southampton star
Schneiderlin. If it happens then Arsenal are likely to take a step back for
Bender race and let Barca sign their target.
Columnist: Simon Oates
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