Barcelona could concede defeat in the chase for midfield target Youri Tielemans, as they feel he has already chosen his next club.
According to Marca, Barcelona could switch their attention away from Youri Tielemans as they feel the Belgian midfield target has already chosen his next club. The Leicester City star was considered a long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets, but the Catalans feel he will join Arsenal.
Youri Tielemans is yet to decide his long-term future, but the indications are he will move on a free transfer in the summer. There were reports of an imminent move in January on a cut-price deal, which could have allowed Leicester City to recoup something for the midfielder.
Arsenal have remained interested in the midfielder since the summer. Some may argue their interest goes back to the last January, but the Gunners reportedly approached in the last window. Mikel Arteta may have wanted him then, but his price tag could have put them off.
Edu Gaspar remains keen on signing him and there is a reported understanding he will sign with the Gunners next summer on a free transfer. Despite many reports suggesting Tielemans could sign a new one-year extension with Leicester, it seems he will indeed leave on a free transfer.
Barcelona also wanted the midfield target next summer, as he will represent good value for his Bosman move. Amid all the financial problems at the club, the Catalans were keen on signing Tielemans on a free transfer. They wanted the Belgian to replace Sergio Busquets in the long term.
Busquets is in the last year of his deal and could depart at the end of the campaign. His absence would leave a massive void for the club to fill, and they have identified a few key targets. Martin Zubimendi is a key target, but Real Sociedad are demanding at least €60 million for the midfielder, which happens to be his release clause.
Wolves star Ruben Neves is another target, but the Catalans are unconvinced he could fill Busquets’ shoes. Hence they wanted Tielemans, who can operate in other roles. He could prove a long-term successor for the veteran Busquets.
Barcelona believes Tielemans has already agreed to join Arsenal in the summer, and hence they don’t have any hopes of convincing the midfield target. If the news is true, then Arsenal are in for a big player to come in on a free transfer and shore up an area of the club that requires strengthening.
