Report: Arsenal were worried about £25m midfielder's defensive ability, it's why they didn't sign him

By Sam Preston

Arsenal were linked with signing Youri Tielemans throughout the summer but there were concerns about his defensive ability.

The Athletic report that the character and quality of the Belgian international were admired at the Emirates Stadium. The interest was genuine.

But there were reservations over his defensive ability as well as his physical capabilities and that is ultimately why they did not sign him.

In the context of deadline day, Arsenal were more looking for an anchorman to deputise for Thomas Partey and Mo Elneny than a number eight.

Arsenal had Tielemans concerns

Arsenal did not manage to get Douglas Luiz over the line either, despite their best deadline day efforts to negotiate with Aston Villa.

Mikel Arteta will be going with the squad which got him to the top of the table with five wins from five games so far, despite Tielemans reportedly being available for £25 million this summer.

Manchester United are up next and that could be a big test for the Gunners, especially with their current midfield injury problems.

Tielemans was unable to stop United recording a third straight win against Leicester last night, and the weekend clash is now first against fifth.

The report also says that as the season goes along, we will see whether the decision not to get another midfielder through the door will impact Arsenal.

European football is now back on the agenda and there are plenty of games to get through as Arsenal seek to maintain their momentum.