Arsenal news: Arsenal lead United in striker chase

Arsenal are leading Manchester United in the battle to sign Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic.

The Croatian is expected to become surplus to requirements at the Allianz Arena next season following the capture of Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund.

UK newspapers have reported that Arsenal and United are interested in signing the player, but SportsDirect News can reveal that Arsenal are the firm favourites as United continue to miss out on the big names.

A source familiar with the situation said: "Arsenal are in a purple patch at the moment and United are going in the opposite direction. Mario wants guaranteed Champions League football if he is to leave Munich.

Mandzukic has scored 12 goals in 21 games already for Bayern this season.

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Beckenbauer : Lewandowski better than Mandzukic

Bayern Munich icon Franz Beckenbauer feels Robert Lewandowski is an even better attacker than Mario Mandzukic and would welcome the Borussia Dortmund man with open arms at the Allianz Arena.

Lewandowski is set to leave BVB on a Bosman move when his contract expires at the end of the season, with Bayern widely touted as the Poland international's ideal destination.

Although Mandzukic has proven a vital player for the European champions since his move to the club in 2012, Beckenbauer believes Lewandowski would prove a significant "upgrade" on the Croatia international.

"Regardless of how good Mandzukic is, Lewandowski will still be an upgrade," Beckenbauer was quoted as saying by Sport Bild.

"He is perhaps even stronger on the ball and his movement is even better.

"It would be great if he were to play for Bayern soon."

Lewandowski, 25, is currently leading the Bundesliga goalscoring charts with nine goals from 12 appearances and will be looking to add to his tally at the weekend when Dortmund host Bayern.

Mandzukic, meanwhile, sits second in the charts with eight goals from 12 games.

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