Arsenal used Tuesday night's Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund to run the rule over wonderkid Mario Gotze.

Gotze, 19, is the emerging star of German football and his performances for the Bundesliga club have caught the attention of Arsene Wenger and his scouting network.

Super Mario: Arsene Wenger is a keen admirer of Gotze

German reports suggesting the Gunners had a £35million bid rejected by Dortmund were dismissed by the north London club.

But Sportsmail understands Arsenal did make an initial enquiry over the availability of Gotze in the closing days of the summer transfer window.

Ahead of last night's clash, Wenger said: 'He is a provider, he is the one who has the best assists in Germany and is the most dangerous player.

« Previous12Next »