Friday, 11th July, 2014
Bayer Leverkusen are taking a hardline approach when it comes to Lars Bender, warning the player's suitors that under no circumstances is he for sale this summer.
Bender has attracted interest from English giants Arsenal, who are looking to raid the BayArena for the 25-year-old defensive midfielder.
But Leverkusen have no interest in entertaining offers for Bender and have sent out a 'hands off' message before an official bid has even been received.
Sporting director Rudi Voller told the Kolner Stadt Anzeiger: "Firstly, we haven't received an official offer.
"Secondly, Lars wants to stay with us.
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"And though we recruited Hakan Calhanoglu, Bender is not for sale.
"We have big ambitions."
Leverkusen have already lost one key man this summer, with midfielder Emre Can exiting for Liverpool.
The Merseyside giants met Can's €12m release clause, leaving Leverkusen powerless to prevent his departure, despite having only signed him the previous year.
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