According to Metro, Arsenal are planning a summer bid to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender. Wenger is believed to be a long-term admirer of the German International. Arsenal reportedly failed with a £15million bid last summer, but reports from Germany suggest that Leverkusen may ease their stance if they receive an improved offer.
Reportedly, Arsenal will make an initial bid of around £17m as soon as transfer window begins. It is very highly possible that Lars Bender may agree terms with the gunners even before the World Cup.
Lars Bender has all the required attributes like hard tackling, defending and playmaking to successfully replace ageing Arteta in the Arsenal squad.
Manchester United and Real Madrid are also closely monitoring the rising star, but Wenger factor may play a huge role in sealing the deal in the favour of the North London club.