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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport

Arsenal look to trim squad with Sead Kolasinac a transfer target for Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen are interested in a deal for Arsenal's Sead Kolasinac as the Gunners look to trim their squad before the end of the window.

The Bosnian full-back has fallen well down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta in north London, with an out-of-position Ainsley Maitland-Niles preferred to him at left-back on the opening day of the season.

Kieran Tierney is Arteta's first choice, while academy graduate Bukayo Saka has also been used at left-back.

Kolasinac has previously indicated he would be ready to stay and fight for his place at Arsenal and has held talks with Arteta on his position at the club.

(Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

However he could be tempted by a move back to Germany if offered guaranteed first-team football by Leverkusen.

Former club Schalke had shown in interest in a deal but were put off by Kolasinac's wages, though Arsenal would be open to letting the defender leave on loan.

The 27-year-old is one of a number of players Arsenal are looking to move on before the window shuts next month, with Lucas Torriera, Calum Chambers and Sokratis all facing uncertain futures under Arteta.

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