Arsenal are giving the early impression that they are the real deal in the summer transfer window so far.
The north London club have already agreed to sign Ben White from Brighton, while have completed the signing of Albert Sambi Lokonga.
Mikel Arteta reportedly wants to add more creativity to the Arsenal midfield, and the Gunners have earmarked James Maddison as a perfect fit for that role.
Arsenal have been linked with a host of midfielders this summer already, which shows where the priorities lie for the Gunners boss.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Maddison has emerged as a ‘key target’ for the Gunners this summer, with the north London club keen to sign a new no 10.
The report clam that Leicester are unwilling to let the prized asset leave, and would need to receive a bid in excess of £50m to open any kind of discussion with Arsenal.
The 24-year-old has established himself as an influential midfielder for Brendan Rodgers’s side, and it would take a massive offer to lure him away from the club.
However, the Gunners have come up with a smart transfer plan.
Arsenal would allow a fringe player – such as winger Reiss Nelson – to move in the opposite direction to sweeten the deal.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who Leicester looked at last January, is another player who could be used in the part-exchange deal for Maddison.
Nelson, 21, has only one year remaining on his contract at Emirates Stadium and has made only 22 appearances under Arteta.
From Arsenal’s point of view, it’s an exciting offer. They are producing cash, plus offering players who are surplus to requirements at the club.
Leicester, meanwhile, have done some incredible business so far. They have signed Boubakary Soumare, Ryan Bertrand, and Patson Daka already, and are close to securing a deal for Ozan Kabak.
Also read: Tammy Abraham would be a good signing for Arsenal
