New superclub enter the race to sign Leicester’s Youri Tielemans

Leicester City’s ‘Starman’ Youri Tielemans has been the hot topic of recent transfer speculation. The latest is the most concerning but beneficial yet.

Concerning in that any attempts to tie the Belgian midfielder down for longer than the remainder of the 22/23 campaign will be at the mercy of a superclub battle. Beneficial in that any possible transfer battle in January could push up the already lacklustre financials of a possible deal.

According to reports, Spanish side Barcelona have joined Arsenal in their pursuit of the midfielder. The King Power club will be more nervous now than ever before. Afterall, previously there was a length left on his contract, now, a transfer battle could be fatal either before expiration or push Tielemans closer to expiration without considering a short extension.

Leicester City unlikely to lose ‘Starman’

Brendan Rodgers consistently lauds the crucial role of our ‘thinker’ Tielemans. From a new-found defensive impetus, to a box-to-box carrier, and a creative/progressive role, the Belgian international is considered irreplaceable by the Foxes.

The King Power club may not need to worry about losing the integral talent in January. The same reports suggest that Barcelona believe the player has already decided upon his destination, or any talks are already progressed. As such, it would be difficult for a bidding war to arise. Plus, Barcelona are already in a negative financial situation, and they will still need to move on players to bring in such a highly paid star.

Additionally, HITC Sport report that Arsenal’s interest in the progressive midfielder might have waned a small amount; and the Gunners might delay any possible bid for the player. At worst, AFC could just wait for the expiration of the Belgian’s contract rather than paying transfer fee. Arsenal are also interested in other players on top of the player, which could mean alternate priorities – particularly in January.

It is also widely known that the former AS Monaco man is happy at Leicester. Playing regular football, considered a star, and truly an inspirational and affectionate professional towards supporters. There is no animosity in the relationship, and Rodgers will likely convince the player to at least see out the season.

So, although the Northern Irishman has been inspired in the past by the Spanish giants, and Tielemans’ personal affection for the London-based club have been widely reported, the Belgian will likely stay out the season and leave on a free in the summer. Otherwise, a bidding war between superclubs will help push up his value in the winter window.