Arsenal close to £86 million deal for Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Kofane

Arsenal are reported to be in close contact with the agents of 19‑year‑old Bayer Leverkusen forward Christian Kofane as they pursue a £86 million (£100 million €) transfer. The Cameroonian international, who scored seven goals and added four assists in his debut Bundesliga season and impressed Arsenal in a Champions League last‑16 tie, is said to be on a long‑term contract with Leverkusen until 2029.

Arsenal’s interest pits them against Premier League rivals Newcastle United, while clubs such as Chelsea, Everton, Brentford, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have also been linked to the striker. Leverkusen appear relaxed about the growing attention, with a bid in the €100 million range considered sufficient to part with the player. Arsenal view Kofane as a potential decade‑long solution to their striker position, highlighting his speed, technique, defensive work‑rate and aerial ability.