Youri Tielemans 'Physicality' Not An Issue For Arsenal

Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano has squashed rumours that Arsenal are yet to sign Youri Tielemans over physicality concerns.

The Belgian international star has been linked with a move to N5 all summer long, however, a transfer has yet to materialise. 

Such lack of movement has led fans and pundits alike to speculate why such a talent, entering the final year of his contract, hasn’t had more pursuers.

Tielemans perceived lack of physical edge was consequently latched onto as the definitive reason, however, Romano refutes this speculation:

“There’s been some speculation that Arsenal are concerned about Youri Tielemans’ physicality, but I have no news on any issues like this.”

There is no doubt the 25-year-old improves the technical quality of the Gunners midfield, and with a renewal at Leicester appearing unlikely at this stage, the move is one that can be left later on in the window.

While Manchester United have been linked, their interest hasn't been formalised as of yet.

A lack of transfer activity certainly can’t be an accusation thrown at the doorstep of Edu and co., with five transfers already made this summer, including the trifecta of Fabio Vieira, Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko. 

Adding Tielemans as a sixth incoming certainly isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, with contacts between the player and Arsenal frequent according to Romano:

“My latest update on the situation is that Arsenal have been in contact for the Belgian midfielder for months, but the priority goes to the outgoings in that position.

“Leicester have not received any proposals so far, but my prediction is that he will end up leaving.

"He has a year left on his contract, and I think Tielemans being available for a reduced price of £30-35m is an incredible opportunity for big clubs.”

Time will tell if the “outgoings” necessary for the position materialise, but there’s no doubt that the Belgian is highly thought of amongst those at London Colney.

With the league season starting in just nine days, any move will have to be pushed through soon if the Gunners were to want Tielemans in and around the club before the curtain raiser against Crystal Palace next Friday.