Arsenal to battle Chelsea for 'Turkish Ozil'

Arsenal could potentially battle with the likes of Chelsea and Lazio in the pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen attacker Hakan Calhanoglu.

The Turkey international bagged seven goals and seven assists for Leverkusen last term before he was suspended by FIFA for four months due a breach in contract with Trabzonspor in 2011.

Calhanoglu's agent took monetary benefits to seal his move to Trabzonspor, but the player eventually backed out of the move which led to a trial concluded this year.

Turkish outlet Aksam claims that Calhanoglu could be on the move this summer with Leverkusen having slapped a £32.5m release clause on his contract.

It is added that the Bundesliga outfit would accept a much a lesser sum for the attacker if there is strong interest from one of his potential suitors.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Lazio are among the top clubs having expressed an interest in Calhanoglu, who is said to want to become 'the Turkish Mesut Ozil'.

Calhanoglu is well known for his precise set-piece taking ability, and his free-kicks have previously led to comparison with England legend David Beckham.