Arsenal have been heavily linked to Youri Tielemans since the beginning of the summer transfer window. However, a deal for the Belgian has seemed to collapse in recent weeks meaning the Gunners are on the search for alternatives.
One player that the Gunners have reportedly targeted is Amadou Onana from Lille according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri. He has claimed that meetings have already taken between the Gunners and the player’s entourage.
Despite the interest registered by Arsenal, London rivals West Ham have already had a bid rejected for him according to Sky Sports. But, this should not worry Edu due to the previous history between the north London side and Lille.
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The Gunners have been regular shoppers at the French club, having signed Gervinho, Nicolas Pepe and Gabriel Magalhaes in recent years. Edu had major success with the last signing from Les Dogues, as Gabriel has been a sensation since joining the Gunners in 2019.
Despite only being 22-year-old when integrated into the side, he automatically became a leader in defence and has since been the club’s most important defender. The last campaign highlighted why he is one of the first names on Arteta’s team sheet.
And the formula can be repeated if the Gunners opt to sign Amadou. At just 20 years old, the midfielder has established himself as a regular for Lille in Ligue 1 where he played 32 matches last season.
Tielemans seemed to be the ideal target to improve the middle of the park for Arsenal, but this is reportedly no longer the case. Arteta's side have 'cooled' their interest in Tielemans, according to Sky Sports. The report claims that it's become increasingly likely that the Belgium international now signs a one-year contract extension at the King Power Stadium, with his current deal set to expire in 12 months.
With an alternative to Tielemans needed to be signed, the Gunners have an excellent opportunity to complete a deal for Onana. The Belgian has already attracted interest from Premier League clubs meaning Arsenal will need to be proactive in this transfer.
Mikel Arteta had problems with the midfield last season due to the lack of quality in squad depth, and that has hindered the club’s progress at times. If the Spaniard opts for three players in the centre of midfield then Onana would be an excellent option to have on the left-hand side for the future.
With Tielemans seemingly out of the picture, it is important that Arsenal still look to sign another midfielder before the season starts in August. Onana has shown the excellent potential he possesses, and why he could be an option for Edu in the transfer window.
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