Arsenal are closely ‘monitoring’ Bayer Leverkusen centre-forward Christian Kofane ahead of a possible move to the Emirates Stadium next summer, according to Florian Plettenberg.

The North Londoners currently lead the table on 70 points from 31 matches, nine more than second-placed Manchester City, who still have a game in hand.

Although his team’s defensive display may have taken much of the media’s attention, Mikel Arteta’s attack has also been excellent, having scored 61 goals, the most of any team after 30 Premier League games this season.

While Viktor Gyökeres has been in fine form, especially in the second half of the season, netting 11 goals in the league, Gabriel Jesus has netted just two, and his incessant injury concerns suggest the Gunners could make do with a more reliable centre-forward option, with Kofane now being eyed.

Since joining Leverkusen last season, the 19-year-old has been in fine form, taking over the centre forward position ahead of Patrick Schick.

He has netted seven goals and provided eight assists in all competitions and featured in both legs of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 clash against Arsenal, where he gave William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães a torrid time.

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