Exclusive: Arsenal negotiations for Leicester star confirmed, but player pricing himself out of move
Arsenal have held discussions with the camp of a highly rated Leicester City star, though he is putting a transfer in danger due to his massive wage demands, TEAMtalk has been told.
Leicester are searching for a new manager after Brendan Rodgers was sacked on Sunday. The 50-year-old had a great relationship with Leicester chiefs after guiding the club to their first ever FA Cup trophy, but the team’s poor form meant he simply could not carry on in his job any longer.
The Foxes are at the wrong end of the Premier League table, occupying 19th spot after picking up just 25 points from 28 matches.
Several of Leicester’s top players will leave if they are relegated, such as James Maddison, Harvey Barnes and Wilfred Ndidi.
One player who will certainly depart the King Power, regardless of where Leicester finish, is midfielder Youri Tielemans.
The 25-year-old has run down his contract and will therefore be able to find a new club on a free transfer this summer.
Leicester’s Prem rivals Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle United have all been linked with Tielemans. He represents a great transfer opportunity given the fact he is a top Prem midfielder available for no transfer fee.
But TEAMtalk understands he is putting a transfer in doubt due to his huge demands, which have left a host of clubs baulking.
Arsenal hold preliminary talks over Youri Tielemans capture
Arsenal have held conversations with Tielemans’ camp about a prospective deal. However, the Gunners have backed away after Tielemans asked for a contract which would have put him in the top bracket of earners at the Emirates.
Newcastle, like Arsenal, are admirers of the Belgian. But Newcastle are not willing to meet the demands that Tielemans’ representatives have been looking for.
Unless the player significantly changes his stance, there is the strong possibility he will end up leaving England. Clubs from Spain and Italy are monitoring his situation.