Arsenal technical director Edu has already laid the foundations to signing a perfect alternative to Youri Tielemans. The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Gunners lately as he enters the final 12 months of his deal at the King Power Stadium.
football.london understand that the north Londoners are interested in signing the Belgium international despite having already signed a midfielder this summer - Fabio Vieira. And, initially, it looked as if the former Porto star's move to north London would deter Tielemans from leaving Leicester City.
But, with Arsenal having held a long interest in the Belgian and the Foxes leaving the door open to exits, he could well be on the move. However, with the Premier League underway and the transfer window slamming shut on September 1, Edu has put in leg work behind the scenes to locate an alternative should a deal for Tielemans not materialise.
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According to Calciomercato, Arsenal hold an interest in AC Milan star Sandro Tonali. And, journalist Enrico Camelio has confirmed - on behalf of the Italian outlet on TV Play - that the two clubs have already engaged in talks over a potential transfer which could cost as much as €55million (£46.4m).
"Milan and Arsenal met and talked about Tonali," said Camelio. "The Rossoneri have declared that the midfielder is not transferable, but if a proposal for 55 million arrives, Milan could sell him and make two purchases."
Tonali, who sees his contract at the San Siro expire in 2026, featured 36 times for the Rossoneri last season, directly contributing towards eight goals from midfield. The 22-year-old's impressive displays contributed heavily towards AC Milan's first Scudetto in nine years, winning the interest of Arsenal.
With Arteta keen on signing another midfielder this summer, Tonali could be the perfect candidate for the Spaniard.
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