If Arsenal need a midfielder, then it is one who can add some energy into the middle of the pitch and gel everything together. Lars Bender is a player who could do just that, and he is being linked with a £20m move to the Gunners as he is recognised as their number one target. But what could he offer to the north London outfit should he sign for them?
Bender is a player who loves to be in the middle of a war. The timing of his tackles are impeccable and it is rare that he is left wanting in the physical aspect of the game, unlike a few of the current Arsenal players.
Bender has attempted 190 tackles this season, which shows his ambition to strip his opponent of the ball.
And while he’s not the most composed on the ball – his pass completion stands at just 77% – he is handy when his current side, Bayer Leverkusen, are steaming forward.
He has made 18 key passes this season and scored three in the Bundesliga.
For me, Bender would be a cracking signing for Arsene Wenger. He has the determination and grit that Arsenal need, while not having a huge reputation hanging over his head.
