Barcelona transfer ban aids Arsenal bid for top Bundesliga target

Lars Bender is a player we have been linked with for several seasons, but as of yet we have been unable to get a deal done.

We are reportedly planning to revisit our interest in him this summer, and could make a £22m move for the German midfielder, according to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo.

READ MORE:
Arsenal rumours
Van Gaal Can’t Wait For Manchester United v Arsenal FA Cup Clash
Arsenal Striker Olivier Giroud Admits He Has Concerns Over His Performance

He is also a reported target for Barcelona, but the Spanish giants are currently in the midst of a transfer ban and are unable to do any business.

The La Liga side are banned from signing anyone until 2016, having been found guilty of breaching FIFA rules regarding transfers of players under the age of 18.

Don't Miss:

• [Match Highlights] Arsenal v BATE Borisov – All The Goals And Best Bits
• [Player Ratings] Arsenal 3-0 BATE – Gunners Seal Spot In Europa League Last 16
• [Confirmed Lineups] Arsenal v BATE Borisov – Ozil Stars For Gunners

We are looking to take advantage of that ban, and hoping to sign Bender this summer while Barcelona’s hands are tied.

The 25-year-old is exactly the kind of tough tackling, no-nonsense midfielder we have been missing for so long, and while we have found a quality option in Francis Coquelin, there is no denying that we still need reinforcements in that department.