Arsenal confident in signing Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans | Soccer

The Switzerland international was a divisive character during his six years at the north London club but has been an increasingly influential figure last season.

However, Xhaka has raised eyebrows with his comments after losing to Newcastle in the penultimate game of the season which effectively cost the Gunners a Champions League spot.

The 29-year-old accused his team-mates of bottling the game and not having the maturity to deal with the pressure that came with a game of such importance.

Xhaka was on the verge of leaving Arsenal last summer and was keen to link up with Jose Mourinho at Roma, but as the Serie A club struggled to meet the Gunners’ rating, the former Basel star stayed and signed a new long-term Contract.

The Europa Conference League winners remain interested in Xhaka, but with Nemanja Matic joining on a free transfer when his contract with Manchester United expires, that escape route is blocked.

Regardless of whether Xhaka stays or not, signing at least one new central midfielder for Arteta is a priority this summer.

Thomas Partey began to fulfill his potential last season but another injury robbed Arsenal of their presence during the run-in and doubts remain over his ability to stage a full season.

Albert Sambi Lokonga, on the other hand, barely played in the latter part of the season, while the long-term future of Lucas Torreira and Ainsley Maitland-Niles seems to lie elsewhere after both left on loan to Italian clubs.

According to CBS, Arsenal are increasingly confident in signing Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans for £25million and expect to complete that transfer quickly once the 25-year-old completes his international commitments with Belgium.

Arsenal have been in talks with the former Monaco star since January and are in pole position to sign a player who has also been of interest to Tottenham and Liverpool.

MORE: Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans opens door on Arsenal-Tottenham summer transfer

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