After missing out on Champions League qualification, early reports suggest Arsenal are set to be particularly active in the upcoming Summer transfer window. The name of Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans is the latest to pop up on the club’s rumour mill.
The Athletic have reported that Tielemens ranks highly among Arsenal's midfield targets as the Gunners are seeking to provide competition for the likes of Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey and Martin Ødegaard. Tielemans is believed to be enticed by the potential of a move to the north London outfit.
With the Belgian international out of contract with the Foxes next Summer, Manager Mikel Arteta and Technical Director Edu believe they can strike a deal for as little as £25 million. Nevertheless, even at that price, this is not a deal Arsenal fans are overwhelmingly enthused by.
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It appears many are doubtful over how practical a midfield three of Tielemans, Partey, and Ødegaard would be, weathering concerns over Tielemans defensive capabilities and his engine. Given this is a player who’d likely replace Granit Xhaka as Arteta’s left-sided central-midfielder, it’s crucial Arsenal can find the right man to provide mobility, goals, and solidity without the ball.
The Mirror believe Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves remains a target after concrete links between the club and the Portuguese international last Summer. These targets evidence Arsenal’s desire to purchase a Premier League proven player in this role.
Arsenal have also been linked with various forward targets in recent days. Gabriel Jesus is said to find himself at the top of Gunners’ wish list, despite interest from Spurs. Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is another player Arsenal reportedly greatly admire in this area of the pitch.
The technical team at Arsenal clearly recognise how important this Summer could be as they seek once again to mount a bid to return to the Champions League after a 5 year absence.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Arsenal, Youri Tielemans, Transfers, Leicester City