Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Newcastle backed to enter Youri Tielemans race as Dan Ashworth makes ‘enquiries’ for Arsenal target

Youri Tielemans of Leicester City during the UEFA Conference League Quarter-Finals, Second Leg match between PSV Eindhoven and Leicester City at Phillips Stadion

Newcastle United could give Arsenal competition for Youri Tielemans amid claims Dan Ashworth has made ‘enquiries’ on behalf of the Magpies.

Tielemans has become a top Premier League midfielder since joining Leicester City – originally on loan – in January 2019. The Belgian has gone on to play 158 matches for the Foxes, registering 24 goals and the same amount of assists.

He has played a big role in helping Leicester break into the top six in recent seasons. However, they were unable to do so last term, ending up in eighth place.

Tielemans is being tipped to leave the King Power this summer or next. Sources claim he is refusing to sign a new deal and, with his current contract expiring in 2023, this could result in an exit.

Arsenal are long-term admirers of the 25-year-old. According to recent reports, the Gunners are growing increasingly confident they can sign him from Leicester.

A deal would cost between £25million and £32m because of Tielemans’ contract situation.

But it might not be easy for Arsenal to secure his services. As per CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs, there is a ‘growing feeling’ Newcastle are planning to get in the mix.

Jacobs states Ashworth, Newcastle’s sporting director, has made ‘enquiries’ about Tielemans’ availability.

Newcastle face ‘challenge’ in Youri Tielemans pursuit

The reporter doesn’t reveal how serious their interest is, or how Leicester responded.

The ‘challenge’ for Eddie Howe’s side would apparently be informing Tielemans how he fits into the midfield at St James’ Park.

Howe can already utilise Joelinton, Jonjo Shelvey and Bruno Guimaraes in a midfield three. Plus, other options include Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff.

But there is a strong argument that Tielemans would be able to go straight into Newcastle’s starting eleven, potentially in Shelvey’s place.

After all, he has shone for Leicester in competitions such as the Champions League and Europa League. The 52-cap international also bagged a stunning winner against Chelsea in the 2021 FA Cup final. This shows how well he can impact big games.

It would be harsh on Shelvey to drop out of the first team. But if Tielemans arrives on Tyneside this summer, then that seems to be the best way for the latter to start under Howe.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are back in the picture to sign a former Manchester United man on a free transfer, according to reports.