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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is heading the £8million race for Germany’s new star centre-half Matthias Ginter. Wenger sent chief scout Steve Rowley to watch the recently-capped Freiburg defender in the Bundesliga this weekend.

The Gunners have been on the trail of 6ft 3in 20-year-old for months, but are now stepping up their interest ahead of a summer bid.

Ginter made his full international debut against Chile and is tipped to go to the World Cup finals as cover for the likes of Per Mertesacker.

Wenger sees Ginter as a long-term legend at the Emirates although he might have to settle for a place on the bench initially if he joins.

Manchester United have also been keeping an eye on the player, but Wenger has strong relations with Freiburg and would have a good chance in the chase.

With Thomas Vermaelen likely to leave at the end of a frustrating campaign, Wenger needs a new commanding defender - and Ginter fits the bill.

Is Ginter the right man for the Gunners? Click here to find out.