Arsenal are preparing a major bid for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender.

The Mirror says he Gunners are known suitors of the Germany international and are expected to make their move ahead of transfer deadline day.

Bender, 26, was watched by Arsenal scouts during Leverkusen's 1-0 Champions League playoff clash with Lazio last week.

Arsenal will seek to do business for £18 million.

And it is understood the player would provide added competition in central midfield, with Mathieu Flamini set to leave the club if he arrives.