According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are exploring a late move to sign Arsenal target Youri Tielemans from Leicester.
What’s the story?
Well, the Belgium international has been in the spotlight throughout the summer, as he has already entered the final 12 months of his £120,000-a-week contract at the King Power Stadium.
Arsenal have been in touch with Tielemans – who is keen to join the Gunners – and have supposedly agreed personal terms with the Leicester No.8 regarding a move to the Emirates Stadium.
However, the north Londoners have been waiting for the Foxes to budge from their £40m asking price.
At the moment, it is a game of poker between the pair, but Newcastle have now sat down at the table to join in.
The Daily Mail believe Eddie Howe also wants to bring a defensive midfielder to St James’ Park.
Despite his refusal to sign a new contract, Tielemans has still appeared in all four of Leicester’s Premier League games so far this season, and is a key player for Brendan Rodgers.
Any bid from Newcastle must spark Arsenal into action
If Newcastle lodge a concrete offer for Tielemans, Arsenal must respond with a bid of their own.
In truth, Mikel Arteta and Edu – Director of Football at the Emirates Stadium – should already be making a move for the Belgian regardless of what the Magpies do.
Mohamed Elneny has just suffered a serious hamstring injury, while there are also concerns over the fitness of Thomas Partey.
Arsenal needed at least one new central midfielder even before those two picked up injuries, and at this stage of the transfer window, there doesn’t seem to be an easier deal to complete than Tielemans.
Keep an eye on developments, as we would be very surprised if Tielemans is still playing for Leicester after Thursday’s 11pm deadline.
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