Arsenal still seem to be on the hunt for a midfielder in the summer transfer window, having been linked with numerous players in this position. However, the Gunners are not the only club linked to options in the middle of the park.
Youri Tielemans seemed to be the Gunners’ main transfer option. CBS Sports reported earlier in the season that Tielemans would be available for £30m, which makes him an absolute bargain to solve the north London side’s midfield issues.
However, Barcelona have potentially given Arsenal the perfect access to Franck Kessie, who could be available on a free transfer. Edu has targeted the Ivorian previously and has been given an excellent opportunity to secure his signature.
According to ESPN, Andreas Christensen and Kessie could Barcelona as free agents before Saturday. The club is concerned about their current situation after being unable to register both players due to financial difficulties.
This gives Arsenal an excellent opportunity to pounce on Kessie’s situation and sign him before the end of the transfer window. The Gunners had been linked with a move for the midfielder earlier in the season.
The Mirror claimed that Arsenal, along with Manchester United and Spurs, were interested in securing the Ivorian’s services. Kessie is still only 24 years old but has the necessary Champions League experience and has been a Serie A regular for over five seasons.
According to Sky Sports, Mikel Arteta’s side have ‘cooled’ their interest in Tielemans. The report claims that it’s become increasingly likely that the Belgium international now signs a one-year contract extension at the King Power Stadium, with his current deal set to expire in 12 months.
If Arsenal have backed away from signing Tielemans, then Kessie would undoubtedly be an excellent alternative. Edu should be put on red alert due to Barcelona’s uncertainty surrounding the Ivorian.
