Arsenal transfer news: Lars Bender and William Carvalho on Arsene Wenger's shortlist for midfield reinforcements

The 26-year-old Bender has won 11 caps for Germany

James Orr
Thursday 26 November 2015 08:42 EST
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Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender (Getty Images)

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is targeting Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender ahead of Sporting Lisbon's William Carvalho, according to reports.

The Gunners are in the midst of a midfield injury crisis, headed by Francis Coquelin, who is out for at least three months with a knee ligament injury.

Wenger today confirmed that he aims to make a new addition in January.

“We are in a position where we want to do something,” Wenger said. “If I find the right quality, I will do something."

Calciomercato.com have reported that Bender is the Gunners' main target for central midfield.

Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta are also out injured, leaving Mathieu Flamini and Santi Cazorla to fill the central berths.

Coquelin sustained his injury during Arsenal’s 2-1 defeat to West Bromwich Albion at the weekend.

Wenger also confirmed today that Coquelin will not need surgery, but still faces three months out.

"The scans are positive because he does not need any surgery but it will be 12 weeks," Wenger told arsenal.com.

The 26-year-old Bender has won 11 caps for Germany. He was named in the provisional 30-man squad for the 2014 Worlds Cup, but was forced to withdraw before the start of the tournament with a thigh injury.

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