Paul Merson believes Arsenal should prioritise Sergej Milinkovic-Savic over Youri Tielemans this summer. Both have both been linked with a move to north London as Edu looks to bolster Mikel Arteta's midfield options.
Reports in Italy suggest the Gunners are pursuing a deal for the Lazio star after cooling their interest in Leicester's Belgium international. Arsenal have already confirmed the signings of four new players this summer, including Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Marquinhos and Matt Turner.
Arsenal are believed to have already agreed personal terms with Tielemans but they're also exploring the possibility of signing Milinkovic-Savic, with the Serie A side slapping a price tag in the region of £55million for the 27-year-old. Lazio are open to selling their star midfielder with the club in need of funds to reshape the squad ahead of next season.
READ MORE: Youri Tielemans has already revealed his future transfer plans amid Arsenal midfielder chase
Having both would undoubtedly be a luxury, but Gunners legend Merson thinks his former club should be prioritising the Serbian over Tielemans.
“Leicester's Tielemans would tick the box for Arsenal. He'd be a decent alternative. But Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is the player I would go for," he wrote in his Daily Star column. “Now more than ever, Arsenal need a top-class midfielder to compete with the best. And I think Savic is a lovely player. A really top-drawer player.
“The way he played for Lazio last season I personally think he is the best midfield player in Italy. I know Manchester United have been linked with him in the past, but why there isn't a queue of clubs lining up to buy the Serbian, I do not know. I think a lot of clubs are missing a trick.”
Supporters will secretly be hoping that Edu can secure both targets before the window slams shut but negotiations will be difficult.
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