Despite the emergence of Francis Coquelin during the second half of last season, Arsene Wenger is looking to add another holding midfielder to his squad. Wegner has his sights on German international Sven Bender, after missing out on Monaco’s Geoffrey Kondogbia, who looks set to join Inter.
Bender is one of Dortmund’s highest earners, on an estimated £2.2 million a year at the German giants, but new boss Thomas Tuchel is prepared to sell the experienced midfielder to free up some funds in order to strengthen his squad,
Bender, 26, who played a key role in Dortmund’s resurgence in the Bundesliga under former manager Jurgen Klopp, has seen his influence diminish in recent seasons due to injuries and increased competition, meaning the midfielder could be keen for a fresh challenge after six years at Signal Iduna Park.
Dortmund’s No.6 is known for his combative style of play, which something the Gunners have consistently lacked in their midfield over the last decade, but is also very capable in the air as shown by his 56% success rate in aerial duels last season.
Arsenal will have to move quickly if they wish to sign the holding midfielder, brother of Bayer Leverkusen’s Sven. Fellow Premier League clubs Liverpool and Southampton are reportedly considering making moves for him. The Daily Mail, meanwhile, suggest Tottenham are currently leading the race to sign the German, who they claim is valued at €28 million (£20m).
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