Bernd Leno has reportedly informed Bayer Leverkusen that he wishes to leave the Bundesliga club, with many European giants showing interest, according to Bild.
It is believed that Arsenal have shown interest in bringing him to North London following some poor performances from first choice goalkeeper Petr Cech, and the Arsenal board see him as a good replacement.
However, the Gunners reportedly face competition for Leno’s signature from Atlético Madrid, who travel to the Emirates to face Arsenal in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final tonight.
But as news spreads that Leno is keen on exiting Leverkusen, it could be that Arsenal face more competition from other European colossi.
Leno’s current contract keeps him in North-Rhine Westphalia until 2020, which would be one year shy of his testimonial year for Die Werkself, having joined in 2011 from VfB Stuttgart II.
However, he could and probably will be leaving much earlier than that, as he poses to attract increased interest throughout the summer if Arsenal or Atléti fail to grab him.
Still at the youthful goalkeeping age of 26, he has many years left in him which Arsenal could make the most of, especially if the expected transfer fee is around a very reasonable £20m to £25m.
