Arsenal are reportedly making a deal for Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans a priority, with a decision on the transfer expected next week.
Tielemans has been linked with a move to the Gunners for some time now. The 25-year-old is expected to leave Leicester this summer after spending three impressive seasons with the club. Now, Arsenal are hoping to land the star midfielder as they target a top four finish next season.
According to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have made this deal a prioirty over other potential midfield targets.
The club have already made contact with the player’s camp, and last week were leading the race for his signature.
However, there are still some concerns surrounding the completion of this transfer.
Firstly, it has also been confirmed that two other clubs have made contact with the player’s agent regarding his availability.
And while Tielemans has made it evident that he will not sign a new deal with Leicester, there is no guarantee that he would prefer a move to Arsenal.
The Belgian international also still has a year remaining on his contract with Leicester. This means any transfer this summer will require a fee.
It is believed the Foxes are looking for around £30m -£35m for Tieleman’s services. He joined the club in 2019 for a club-record fee of £35m.
That being said, Arsenal must make a decision on whether they are willing to spend this sort of money on their target.
The report suggests that a decision will be made this week. The Gunners will either accept the fee, or move their focus elsewhere.
Youri Tielemans not only Arsenal target
If the club were to decide to look elsewhere, they have already reportedly set their sights on two alternative options.
Ruben Neves and Arthur Melo are also in the report as potential targets.
Neves, 25, already has a good amount of Premier League experience and would be an excellent addition to the Arsenal squad.
However, Technical Director for Wolves Scott Sellar has insisted the club are looking to keep hold of their star man in summer.
He told the media: “Ruben’s a top player. Ruben’s been fantastic this season and I think showed again his quality, also I think showed how happy he is here. So I think that’s something we as a club know as well.
“The ideal situation is we want him to stay, and I’ve spoken to him about it. But I’m also realistic that when you’ve got an outstanding player then the top clubs are going to come and try to see what the situation is. Again, it will be discussed, and what’s right for the club, and will certainly be something we’ll look at.”
Whatever happens, it seems Arsenal are desperately looking to improve their midfielder options this summer.
