Arsenal make contact with representatives of rising star as they switch transfer targets away from Tielemans

Arsenal have opened preliminary talks over a transfer for Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Jesper Lindstrom, according to a reliable source.

The Gunners were linked with the Denmark star earlier this month, with Calciomercato claiming they will make a serious play for the 22-year-old in January.

The versatile midfielder enjoyed a brilliant breakthrough campaign last term, scoring five goals and adding nine assists in all competitions. He was also a starter in the Europa League final victory over Rangers.

His form has grabbed the attention of a number of clubs including Barcelona, Milan, Juventus, Roma, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

But now Arsenal have advanced their interest in Lindstom. Bild report that the Gunners are “really hot” for Lindstrom and have been in contact with the player’s representatives.

A fee of around £17m would be enough to land the player, who arrived from Brondby last summer.

“Jesper Lindström will bring so, so much to our game and his qualities are certainly going to be a great help to the club,” said Eintracht board member Markus Krosche at the time.

“He is quick and he has shown in Denmark that he has enormous potential. He will give us more options and more variety.”

The Gunners were pursuing Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans over the summer. But it’s thought the £25m price tag put off Arsenal officials.

Lindstrom rise

Tielemans will be out of contract next summer and available on a free transfer. It’s understood Leicester will do everything they can to ensure the Belgium international does not leave for free next June.

Speaking about his situation this week, Tielemans said: “I’m not going to speak too much about my contract situation at the moment.

“I didn’t leave Leicester in the summer as I always said the project had to be the right one.

“Just because things are getting worse now at Leicester doesn’t mean I should regret [staying].”

Lindstrom would certainly represent a shrewd piece of business for Arteta and Edu. The Dane has played on the left, right and as an attacking midfielder and his age profile is one that Arsenal are trying to add to their squad.

Tielemans may be a safer signing, but Arsenal do not seem willing to pay for a player who will be a free transfer in nine months. Lindsrom also represents a player with more potential having seen a steady rise from the Brondby academy aged 13.

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