Arsenal are still Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans’ number one destination, according to CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs.

The Gunners have not yet tabled a formal offer for the Belgian international, even though they have been linked with the player for several months. Despite reported interest from other teams, including Manchester United and Newcastle, Jacobs says the player will continue to prioritise a move to the Emirates:

“It’s in Arsenal’s control, if Arsenal bid and agree a fee Tielemans will join Arsenal regardless of what any other club do. If Arsenal don’t bid it’s more of an open race and that’s where Manchester United could come in as a De Jong backup or even a late bid from Newcastle could be something we see.”

Tielemans is only expected to cost between £25m and £30m due to his contract situation but, up until now, Arsenal have been reluctant to pull the trigger on making a bid.

Various explanations have been given as to why Mikel Arteta’s side have hesitated on signing the player but the most common reason cited is that the Gunners are looking to free up space in their squad.

With Lucas Torreira likely to finalise his switch to Galatasaray soon, perhaps that will be enough for Arsenal to spring into action and get a deal for Tielemans over the line.