Reports: Valencia go on Bender chase

Valencia are hot on the trail of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender, according to reports.

The Germany international was an integral part of Robin Dutt’s side, which beat the Spanish outfit to earn a place in the Champions League round-of-16, starting every game for Leverkusen in Europe’s illustrious club competition.

The purchase of the midfielder is unlikely to come cheap, however, as he has a contract until 2014, and is yet to express his desire to leave the BayArena, but Cadena Ser has reported there is interest from Unai Emery’s men.

The 22-year-old, who is the twin brother of Borussia Dortmund’s Sven Bender, joined Leverkusen from 1860 Munich for the sum of 2.5 million euros in 2009.

Bender has become an important part of the team, following the sale of Arturo Vidal to Juventus in the summer, making 24 appearances in all competitions this season.