Arsenal leading race for Bayer Leverkusen's Lars Bender?

Arsenal have reportedly emerged as the frontrunners to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender.

The Gunners' pursuit of a strong midfielder has long been a focus of media attention, and it is thought that boss Arsene Wenger is now looking at the possibility of bringing in a central man during the January window.

According to The Standard, Bayer's Bender is high on the club's wishlist and he appears the most likely midfield candidate to make a move to the Emirates when the window opens.

The North London side currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League standings.