Transfer Tracker: Arteta wants Tielemans

Mikel Arteta is attempting to bolster his midfield and identified Leicester City's Youri Tielemans as a potential suitor. The Telegraph reports that Arteta is pushing Edu Gaspar and the Arsenal hierarchy to submit an opening bid of £25m. The Belgian international has one year remaining on his contract and reportedly rejected any discussions of extending his contract with Leicester City.

In 50 matches in all competitions this season, Tielemans produced seven goals and five assists. Tielemans tends to play a more holding midfielder and is talented when on the ball; his biggest weaknesses are his pace and physical strength. An Arsenal comparison could be Thomas Partey or Granit Xhaka in a similar profile. Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers admitted during the last January transfer window, "He is at an age and at a stage in his contract where he has to ensure he looks at every option. I would love it to be here at Leicester, that is natural, but I understand it's a very short career," (SkySports).

Arteta has expressed that Arsenal has a "clear plan" in terms of their business for the upcoming summer transfer window and has already reportedly signed Mohamed Elneny to a one-year extension with an option to extend it a year further. In addition, Arsenal is looking at Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus to bolster their attack for next season, but no official bid's been submitted.