Sami Khedira transfer latest: Chelsea looking to hijack Arsenal's move for Germany star Khedira as Real Madrid midfielder moves closer towards exit

The London rivals look likely to go head-to-head in the hunt for Khedira after the midfielder rejected a contract from Real

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Sami Khedira has been linked with a move to the Premier League with both Arsenal and Chelsea interested (Getty Images)

Chelsea are looking to hijack any move that Arsenal make for Germany star Sami Khedira as reports that he will leave Real Madrid continue to strengthen.

Arsenal 'move' for Khedira and Bender

Having completed the signing of Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona on Thursday, Arsenal could make a second serious statement of their intent with a move for Khedira, although the club will likely have to smash their wage record if they are to convince the 27-year-old to head to the Emirates.

Jose Mourinho worked with Khedira during his time in Madrid, with the midfielder proving to be a first-team regular under the Portuguese as they clinched the La Liga title in 2011-12. However, he has not been as central to Carlo Ancelotti’s plans as he has shown a preference to start with Xabi Alonso and Luka Modric in the centre.

Talk of Khedira leaving the club intensified when he rejected a new contract as reported by the Daily Mail, and his wage demands are expected to be in the region of £150,000-£200,000 if he is to be persuaded to move to London.

Chelsea have already shown their intent this summer after securing the signings of former Gunners’ captain Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona in a £30m deal, while also acquiring his Spanish team-mate Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid after activating his £32m release clause.

Arsenal are expected to follow suit and make further inroads into the transfer market, with interest in Khedira supported by a move for Bayern Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender, should things not workout for the Real star. Arsene Wenger is also closing in on the signing of Loic Remy, although the delay in completing the transfer could yet see rivals Tottenham and Liverpool steal in for the striker.

But while Khedira will be keen to resolve his future sooner rather than later, he will have his full attentions on helping Germany secure a first World Cup trophy in 24 years on Sunday night, when they come up against a Lionel Messi-inspired Argentina.

Khedira shone in the 7-1 semi-final demolition of Brazil, and he is likely to start again for Joachim Loew’s side, having started three of their five games so far in South America.