• Premier League

Arsenal fail in Bender bid

ESPN staff
July 2, 2013
Lars Bender looks likely to remain at Bayer Leverkusen © PA Photos
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Arsenal have been knocked back in their attempt to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender, according to widespread reports.

The Gunners tabled a €23 million bid for the Germany international according to German newspaper Express and several British outlets, as Arsene Wenger looks to add to his squad.

However, after the sales of Andre Schurrle to Chelsea and Dani Carvajal to Real Madrid the Bundesliga side are keen not to lose another of their star players and Arsenal could be forced to turn their attention elsewhere.

A spokesperson for the club said: "It's absolutely normal that there has been interest in him because he is a top-level player who is improving.

"But he has a contract until 2017 and he is absolutely happy to stay at Leverkusen."

Bender, whose twin brother Sven plays for Borussia Dortmund, will play in the Champions League next season after helping his side to a third-placed Bundesliga finish.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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