Arsenal are ready to test Bayer Leverkusen's resolve in January over midfielder Lars Bender. The Daily Star Sunday says they have already had one bid of £18.5million rejected by the German club but manager Arsene Wenger refuses to give up.
The £20m-rated box-to-box midfield player is being lined up as a future replacement for Mikel Arteta.
Germany international Bender, 24, is also admired by Manchester United who are aiming to strengthen their midfield with a partner for new signing Marouane Fellaini.
