Arsenal have ramped up their interest in signing Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, according to reports in Germany. The 21-year-old has established himself as one of the best players in the Bundesliga having played a key role in Leverkusen’s league and cup double success last season.

The Spaniard's absence was keenly felt in numerous facets, a bit more height defending set plays, a player who can rocket the ball in from range. Without him, the champions looked beatable. They might well have been, albeit in contentious circumstances.

Arsenal has gotten under Manchester City’s skin in what has fast become the new big rivalry in English soccer.