If reports are true, Arsenal are about to make a monumental mistake regarding 'special' £40m international - TBR View

By Lee Connor

Arsenal have been making waves all summer with their transfer business as the club once again backs Mikel Arteta to the hilt with new signings.

The Gunners have broken the £100m barrier once again. This time they’ve signed Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira and Oleksandr Zinchenko in big money deals. Matt Turner has also arrived in goal, while young winger Marquinhos comes in to add some more talent to an already brimming pool at London Colney.

Of course, Arsenal might not be done just yet and one name repeatedly mentioned this summer has been that of Leicester City man, Youri Tielemans. The Belgian is thought to be a player Arteta is keen on signing but as yet, no deal has been done.

And if reports this weekend which suggested a big sale would now be needed for Arsenal to sign Tielemans are true, then you can’t help feeling the Gunners are making a big mistake here.

Tielemans Perfect For Arsenal

For most Arsenal fans, the big problem last season barring having a top number nine, was in central midfield. Yes, Granit Xhaka did well once more but he remains a problem with inconsistencies and discipline. Thomas Partey is also quality, but he has had injury problems.

Beyond that, Arsenal are looking at the likes of Sambi Lokonga and Mo Elneny, with young Charlie Patino also getting in on the act at times.

But that’s really where the signing of Tielemans makes more sense than not. If Arsenal are really wanting to push into that top four and challenge for trophies, it’s about improving the XI and squad depth. And the fact is, Tielemans is better than Xhaka and those squad players mentioned.

Further, Tielemans is also apparently desperate to join the Gunners. And given he’s available for around £40m, you’d have to say this is money worth spending for Arsenal.

If they refuse, and miss out on Tielemans, then it could mean that come next summer the Belgian signs elsewhere, with Champions League football likely to be a factor in his decision. If the Gunners don’t make that top four, then you can bet your bottom dollar the club that does make it will be asking about Youri Tielemans.