Premier League rivals Manchester United and Arsenal are battling it out to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s holding midfielder Lars Bender.
The German international, who is the twin brother of Borussia Dortmund’s Sven, could be avaiable for around £12 million in the summer.
Both the Red Devils and the Gunners are looking to strengthen in the defensive midfield department and see the 25-year old as a reasonable target.
United boss Louis van Gaal’s original target, Kevin Strootman, has picked up a serious injury. Now the Dutchman is challenging Arsene Wenger for the Leverkusen man.
According to the Sunday People Manchester United’s cheif scout, Jim Lawlor, was present at Bayer Leverkusen’s Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid.
The Bundesliga side will not be worried about losing Bender, as they have a like-for-like replacement in Cristoph Kramer; who is currently on loan at Borussia Moenchengladbach.
By Kieran Makin (@kieranmaksports)