Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed interest is arriving for Arsenal target Tranquillo Barnetta.

The 23-year-old was being tracked by Portsmouth earlier in the season, but shunned possible interest from Pompey.

And now the Swiss star has reportedly emerged as one of Arsene Wenger's primary targets though Bayer, who would want in excess of £12million, insist they want to try and extend his contract - which has 18 months to run.

"There are enquiries for Tranquillo all the time and we have been talking about this with him," Leverkusen sporting manager Michael Reschke told Express, who claim Arsenal have made contact with Bayer.

"We are always in touch with Tranquillo and are attempting to extend his deal."