Arsenal closely monitoring ex-Manchester City star who left Premier League in £54.8 million deal: Reports

Arsenal are closely monitoring Leroy Sane's situation at Bayern Munich amid a possible transfer move this summer, according to Sky Germany.

After narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last season to Manchester City, the Gunners have bolstered their squad this summer, signing Riccardo Calafiori and David Raya on permanent deals. However, they don't appear to be done and are reportedly in the market for Nico Williams and Leroy Sane.

Sane struggled for form at times last season for Bayern Munich but managed 10 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions. The 28-year-old can be one of the world's most devastating, direct wingers when at his best.

The Germany international has represented the Bavarians for four seasons and still has one year left on his current deal. However, he is reportedly yet to reach an agreement with Bayern over a possible extension.

While Sane's preference would be to continue with Bayern, Arsenal 'sense a chance' (via METRO) of a possible deal this summer as the Bavarians wouldn't want him to leave for free next year.

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"He helped me a lot there" - When Leroy Sane spoke highly of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta last season

One factor that may play a role in Arsenal's pursuit of Leroy Sane is the history between the Bayern Munich winger and Mikel Arteta during their time at Manchester City.

Sane plied his trade for Pep Guardiola's Manchester City between 2016 and 2020, establishing himself as one of the best wingers in the Premier League. While Guardiola was instrumental in his development, Sane also paid tribute to Arteta - who worked as an assistant manager for City at the time.

Sane spoke to reporters during a press conference before Bayern's UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal in April, where he said (via METRO):

"It was great. I was really pleased to work with him because he helped me a lot at Manchester City. We had a lot of individual talk about how I can improve my game. What are my weaknesses and strengths."

He added:

"Through him, I made quick, huge improvements because of the ideas he gave to me. I still keep them in my mind. If it’s about positioning, how I have to behave in certain situations so I’m pleased for that."

Under Arteta's guidance, Sane scored 39 goals and provided 43 assists in 135 appearances across all competitions, helping City win eight trophies. He then opted to sign for Bayern Munich for a reported £54.8 million in July 2020.