Arsenal’s season ended in disappointing fashion after they failed to secure a top four finish. However, despite missing out on a place in the Champions League they face a busy summer transfer window in order to strengthen ahead of their European campaign.
Mikel Arteta will be keen to add quality and depth to his squad to cope with the rigours of Europa League football; whilst attempting to remain competitive in the league and cup competitions. One area in particular the Gunners boss is believed to be targeting is central midfield.
One name that has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium is Leicester City star Youri Tielemans. The 25-year-old has been an integral part of the Foxes recent successes of securing two fifth placed finishes in the past three seasons, as well as their FA Cup triumph over Chelsea; scoring the winner in the 2021 final.
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However, the Foxes midfielder only has one year remaining on his contract and is widely expected to leave the King Power Stadium in the upcoming transfer window. Speaking earlier this year, Tielemans revealed that he is happy and settled in the Midlands but that he will make a decision on his future this summer.
“I try not to think about it much and focus on my own performance, it works well, Tielemans told Belgian publication Het Belang van Limburg. “‘But it’s actually amazing how much they talk about my future. Every day they name a different club.
“I have the feeling that people think that after this season I will be out of contract when I still have one year left. I feel good here, I like living here, my children go to school here. I’m happy both outside and inside football. And Leicester have ambition.
“I am very calm about [my future]. My contract expires in 2023 and it’s not that I absolutely want to leave. I haven’t made my decision yet. If I have to stay another year, I will gladly do so. The club has been really great towards me. They remain very professional, just like me. That will not change.
“There are talks between the club and my advisors. That will remain so. It’s not that I’m ignoring the club. I will study my options in the summer and make a decision. My family is the most important to me. I’m not going somewhere where I know my family isn’t happy. As a father of two children, you have to think about that too.”
Tielemans is not expected to sign a new contract and Leicester are believed to be keen to sell this summer in order to prevent him leaving on a free transfer in a year’s time. Manchester United and Liverpool have also been linked with moves for the Belgian, who would reportedly cost around £25million.
