Arsenal's pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Kofane has been verified by the player's agent, who says the Gunners are in 'pole position' to finalise the deal. The north Londoners may pursue a move for a forward this summer, with doubt surrounding the future of Kai Havertz. There have been suggestions that the German could depart the Emirates Stadium when the window opens.

The Gunners secured the signing of Viktor Gyokeres last year, but may seek to bolster their attacking options further. Kofane, who is valued at £35million by Transfermarkt, has emerged as a prospective target. He has scored seven goals and provided eight assists for Leverkusen this season, following his switch from Spanish second division outfit Albacete less than 12 months ago.

Speaking to Daily Arsenal, the 19-year-old's agent Eric Depolo verified Arsenal's interest and identified them as the club in 'pole position'.

"Yes, Arsenal's interest is genuine. The manager likes him very much," he said.

"I think it is too early to say, but due to the fact that the player speaks Spanish, like Mikel Arteta, and that William Saliba is originally from Cameroon, I would...