Arsenal are interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Kofane, the player’s agent has confirmed, saying the Gunners are in “pole position” to finalize a deal. The North Londoners have doubts over the future of Kai Havertz and could pursue a move for the forward this summer. There were also suggestions that the German could leave the Emirates Stadium once the window opens.
The Gunners secured the signing of Victor Goqueres last year and could look to further strengthen their attacking options. Kofane, who is valued at £35m by Transfermarkt, has emerged as a likely target. He has seven goals and eight assists for Leverkusen this season after moving from Spanish second-tier side Albacete less than 12 months ago.
Speaking to Daily Arsenal, the 19-year-old’s agent Eric Depollo confirmed the interest from Arsenal, admitting Arsenal are the club in ‘pole position’.
“Yes, Arsenal’s interest is genuine. The manager likes him very much,” he said.
“I think it’s too early to say, but the fact that this player speaks Spanish like Mikel Arteta and William Saliba is from Cameroon means Arsenal are in pole position.
“Yes, there are contacts between me and Arsenal. But their focus now is to win the league and everything will start moving from there.”
Arsenal are not the only club in the running. Depolo named Chelsea, Newcastle, Everton, Brentford, Barcelona and Bayern Munich as further interested teams.
This suggests the Gunners will face considerable competition if they try to force a deal.
Sporting director Andrea Berta may therefore have his hands full in negotiations.
Kofane cost Leverkusen around £4.5m last summer and the German club will seek a significant return on their spending.
