Arsenal close to £40 million deal for Premier League star

Arsenal can move a step closer to securing Champions League qualification on Sunday as they host Leeds United at The Emirates. 

Mikel Arteta’s side sit just a point ahead of north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur after the Lilywhites’ 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Saturday, but the Gunners do have a game in hand.

The two sides meet on Thursday in a match that could go a long way towards deciding which side qualifies for the Champions League next term.

In the meantime, it appears that Arsenal are closing in on a move for Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans, according to The Sun.

The report claims that the Gunners are increasingly confident of securing a deal for the Foxes’ midfielder, although Real Madrid will pounce if Arsenal fail to secure a top four spot.

The Belgian will reportedly cost Arsenal around £40 million, despite his contract expiring next summer.

Tielemans could be an Arsenal player next term

Arteta is hopeful of bolstering his midfield options ahead of next term, with Tielemans perceived as an upgrade on Granit Xhaka and Mohamed Elneny.

The 25-year-old has already rejected offers to extend his contract with his current club, and has spoken previously of his desire to play in the Champions League.

That could prove an obstacle for Arsenal, as they may miss out on the midfielder if they fail to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition.

Leicester are resigned to the fact that they will lose Tielemans this summer, and would rather cash in on the player now then risk losing him for free in 12 months.