Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans has drawn interest from Premier League duo Arsenal and Manchester United. However, according to Football Insider, the 25-year-old would favour a move to London over Manchester.
The Belgian has entered the final 12 months of his current deal and could be allowed to leave for around €30 million. Despite Leicester’s attempts to tie him to a new contract, the former AS Monaco man favours a move away from the King Power Stadium.
Leicester are the only Premier League side yet to splash the cash this summer. They will be wary of depleting an unimproved squad ahead of the new campaign. However, they risk losing Tielemans for free next season if they do not sanction a deal.
Arsenal are reportedly leading the race for his signature this summer. Meanwhile, United have entered the race as Erik ten Hag hopes to further strengthen his midfield following the arrival of Christian Eriksen.
The Red Devils have made Frenkie de Jong their top transfer target, but the Dutchman has insisted he would rather stay at Barcelona.
When asked for an update on Tielemans’ contract negotiations at Leicester, Rodgers said: “There’s no update at all. He’s an amazing guy to work with. He’s just rejoined the club (for pre-season), and he’s pretty much the same. In training, he’s very committed.”
“He’s happy in his work, and he’s happy at the club. But, naturally, with a year in his contract, he may feel he has to look at everything for him and his family. But I certainly know he’s committed while he is here.”
“I’ll have a good chat with Youri next week to get privately what he’s thinking. But it won’t change – whether he’s leaving or staying for another five years, he’ll still be super committed.”
Tielemans has been a key player for the Foxes since his €45 million move from France in the summer of 2019. He has scored 24 goals and provided 24 assists in 158 appearances. His 63rd-minute strike against Chelsea was enough to fire the Foxes to their first-ever FA Cup trophy.
Arsenal have already bolstered their attack with the arrival of Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Jesus from Porto and Manchester City. With Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka struggling for fitness last season, Tielemans would provide the necessary experience and squad depth in the middle of the park.
Mikel Arteta narrowly missed out on top-four last season, finishing three points behind Tottenham Hotspur. The Gunners are looking to strengthen their squad in all areas as they prepare for a top-four charge in the coming season.
