Arsenal have been urged to sign Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans by Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson.
“I think he’s special, I really do, I think this kid is a top, top player, I really do. The only thing is he’s worked with Brendan [Rodgers] the last so many weeks or couple of months.
“Surely they’re getting into his earhole about signing and they’ve got to get his lad signed. I think he can go to any of the top four, or top six.
“If I was Arsenal or Man United, I’d be looking at him all day long, all day long,” Merson was quoted as saying by the Mirror.
Youri Tielemans: Just what Emery needs
Arsenal’s inconsistency in the midfield department has been one of their main weaknesses this season. The likes of Granit Xhaka, Matteo Guendouzi and even Lucas Torreira have failed to instil solidity while the only consistent player in Aaron Ramsey has struggled with injuries.
The Welshman is also set to depart to Juventus, which could spell further trouble for the Gunners. And with Denis Suarez failing to impress as well, Emery will be in dire need of midfield reinforcements come the summer transfer window.
The addition of Tielemans, in that regard, could be a smart move by the North London giants. As iterated earlier, the Belgian has enjoyed immense success since moving to Leicester in January.
Tielemans’ presence in midfield will add more dynamism to the Arsenal side. With his sublime passing, and composure on the ball, Tielemans would add more stability and calmness to the midfield. In addition, the Belgian is wary of his defensive contribution as well, having averaged 1.4 tackles per game.
The Belgian’s potential combination with Torreira, in particular, might another dimension to the Arsenal midfield as both the players are known for their dynamism and work-ethic.
However, with Ramsey gone, it would perhaps be wiser for Emery to opt for a three-man midfield next season. Xhaka, despite his fair share of flaws, should operate alongside Torreira and Tielemans, both of who will serve in a slightly advanced midfield position.
Although the former Anderlecht prodigy may not be as effective as Ramsey going forward, Tielemans’ vicious right-foot makes him a threat from long-range.
But most importantly, Tielemans’ reported valuation of just £40 million will make him an ideal target for an Arsenal who are expected to face budget restraints, especially after missing out on top-four places in the league this week.
Furthermore, they will face significant competition, with Leicester City and Manchester United also keen to secure the services of this highly rated Monaco midfielder.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored