Respected transfer guru Fabrizio Romano insists Arsenal are still keen on Leicester City star Youri Tielemans despite failing to launch a bid.
The future of Tielemans, 25, has been the subject of many column inches over the summer months. The likes of Manchester United and Newcastle United have been mentioned in connection with the talented midfielder. But it is Arsenal’s name that keeps cropping up when his future is mentioned.
Gunners chief Mikel Arteta is known to be a big fan of the Belgium international and wants him in his ranks. Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers admitted there is a ‘possibility’ that Tielemans could leave the club during the current transfer window.
And Arsenal were tipped to make a bid earlier this week. However, nothing materialised and he took his place in the starting XI as the East Midlanders kicked off their campaign against Brentford on Sunday.
Romano has now given his take on the situation. And it seems as though any move is on hold, with the north Londoners playing their cards close to their chest.
“An offer has not yet arrived at Leicester for Youri Tielemans,” he told CaughtOffside, via Substack. “The situation remains the same and even the player is still waiting for the next steps.
“Arsenal maintain an interest in the Belgium international but an official proposal will be needed.”
Tielemans deal still in the offing
Tielemans has one year left on his Leicester deal. And the King Power outfit will not want to risk him leaving for nothing next summer.
The Foxes value him at around £30m-£40m, meaning the former Monaco man could be a bargain in the current market.
Romano agrees, adding: “I must admit I remain surprised no one has made an offer yet. Because I think a player like Tielemans being available for a reduced fee in the final year of his contract is an incredible opportunity for top clubs.”
The Arsenal board have continued to back Arteta’s recruitment drive. The Spanish tactician has already brought in Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Fabio Vieira during the current window.
And Romano feels that he might be keeping his powder dry until another player departs the Emirates.
“Certainly, the departure of Lucas Torreira to Galatasaray will bring Arsenal €6-7m plus add-ons and that can help fund a new signing,” he continued.
Tielemans does seem a player ideally suited to Arsenal, with an ability to play either an attacking or defensive role.
He has scored 24 goals in all competitions for Leicester. And he will always be remembered for the stunner that gave Rodgers’ charges the FA Cup in 2020-21.
It appears clear that he is wanted at the Emirates and there is still time for a deal to be completed. Romano is not often wrong in his predictions about players moving and feels Tielemans ‘will end up leaving’.
