Journalist says Arsenal will soon ramp up interest in Youri Tielemans

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Journalist Graeme Bailey has told The Talking Transfers Podcast from 90min that Arsenal are still interested in Youri Tielemans and he is expecting their pursuit to ramp up in the next few weeks.

The Gunners look set to prioritise signing a new midfielder in the final stages of the transfer window. And it does appear that Lucas Paqueta may be the name at the top of their wishlist.

Reports on Monday claimed that Arsenal had told his representatives that they planned to make a bid for the Lyon star. Meanwhile, it has been suggested that Mikel Arteta has given a move for the Brazilian his approval.

However, Lyon want at least £50.7 million for the 24-year-old. And with that, Bailey has suggested that a move for another name on their radar is looking more likely.

Obviously, Arsenal have been linked with Tielemans throughout the window. Reports in May claimed that both the Gunners and the Belgian were confident about a £40 million move going through.

‘Interest still there’

Tielemans however, remains a Leicester City player as things stand. And with that, some may not be expecting Arsenal to actually get a deal done for the former Monaco star this summer.

However, Bailey has suggested that Arsenal are gearing up to make a move for Tielemans – and he may only cost a fraction of Paqueta’s asking price.

“I understand that the Tielemans interest is still there. I think that’s much more likely than Paqueta. He didn’t have a great season last season. But at that price, you’ve got to take a swing. Potentially £20 million is all you might be able to get him for including add-ons. And I think that suits Arsenal down to the ground,” he told The Talking Transfers Podcast.

“I think Tielemans will be a much better fit. And there is interest still there from Arsenal and I expect that one to get going in the next few weeks.”

Arsenal still keen on Youri Tielemans

Paqueta would perhaps be the option who would capture the imagination of more Arsenal supporters. Meeting Lyon’s demands would make him one of the club’s most expensive signings ever.

However, a move for Tielemans would have the potential to be inspired. He has bags of experience in the Premier League.

And after many of his performances – he has been described as ‘incredible‘ at times – the idea of paying just £20 million for him would have seemed just fanciful.