Youri Tielemans lifts lid on failed Arsenal move as Edu 'lines up' second attempt for midfielder

Leicester City midfielder and current Arsenal target Youri Tielemans has already given a huge clue as to why he snubbed the club in the past. The Belgium international has been a dazzling success since his move to the Premier League back in 2019, helping Brendan Rogers side to FA Cup glory last season after scoring a stunning winner in the final against Chelsea at Wembley.

But with rumours circulating surrounding his future, it is the Gunners who are at present the front runners to land his signature. Having moved from Monaco initially on loan, the deal was made permanent just three years ago, with Tielemans now seeking pastures new once more.

However, with just a year left on his deal, many other clubs are monitoring the situation, with Manchester United said to be another interested party.

Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves is also said to be a potential target for Arteta this summer, with the futures of Matteo Guendouzi and Mohamed Elneny still to be decided.

As quoted by the Evening Standard back in 2017, following his move from Ligue 1, Tielemans said: “I knew not much was going to change with Arsenal’s squad. Their management wanted to keep the same group of players together in order to finish high in the Premier League. I had to be honest with myself and take a look at the midfielders Arsenal have got.

“They are top-class players. I knew that I would not get many first-team chances with them, so I didn't give any more thought to joining them. I never said no to any club. But I made it clear where I wanted to go.”