"Arsenal" is chasing after L. Bender extended his contract with "Bayer" © EuroFootball.com

Leverkusen's "Bayer" retained their team star. The German team officially announced that they have signed a new contract with defender Lars Bender.

During the summer, the German national team player was particularly linked with London's "Arsenal," and "Manchester United" also showed interest, but the soccer player extended his contract with "Bayer" until 2019.

"Over the past few years, 'Bayer' has changed, but in a positive way. Our team is strong and has the potential to become even better," Bender said officially on the club's website.

"I want to be part of this story and I want to give my all to this team. I feel great in Leverkusen and the environment around me is amazing," added the defender.

The 24-year-old footballer arrived at "BayArena" in 2009, when he left "1860 München." During this period, the German played 150 matches and scored 14 goals.