1. Lars Bender (Bayer Leverkusen, €22m)

The main problem that Arsenal have faced this season in big games is the more dominant teams have ripped open their soft underbelly. Mikel Arteta for all his ability on the ball is very slow and hence not the best option when choosing a defensive midfielder. While Mathieu Flamini’s return has strengthen their ranks, they are in urgent requirement for a defensive midfielder in the summer.

Bayer midfielder Lars Bender is one of the best holding midfielders in the Bundesliga and hence, should be one of Arsene Wenger’s prime targets in the summer. Despite his younger twin Sven grabbing more headlines due to his performances for Borussia Dortmund, Lars has established himself as the preferred choice in the German national team setup.

Bender is capable of slotting in at right back if required and with Bacary Sagna getting on in years, the added versatility that the German would provide is likely to make him an even more attractive target. His passing is very good and hence he would slot in nicely into the Arsenal system, adding some steel and pace in the heart of midfield, something that has been missing so far this season.

All transfer values quoted are from TransferMarkt