Arsenal may be turning their attention towards outgoings for the time being, but that isn't going to put an end to the speculation surrounding Leicester City's Youri Tielemans or any other player for that matter. In fact, it's probably going to do the opposite.
Mikel Arteta's squad has grown due to five new signings and the return of several loanees, meaning that departures are currently viewed as a priority for technical director Edu. It had been a worryingly quiet time on the sales front, but after Arteta confirmed that the process to resolve players' futures would start "very soon", things appear to be picking up pace.
However, just because there may be a lack of movement with incomings over the coming days and weeks, that doesn't mean the Gunners are done for the summer. Arteta and Edu have both confirmed that the door remains open for further signings, with the former suggesting that his squad remains slightly short in certain positions.
READ MORE: Edu receives boost over major Arsenal sale to continue Mikel Arteta's £120m spending spree
That's exactly why links to Tielemans are failing to go away. football.london understands Arsenal have held talks with his representatives over the last few months, but a formal offer is yet to be submitted to the Foxes. One of the main reasons behind this is believed to be related to the presence of Lucas Torreira and Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who are said to be available on the market if suitable offers arrive.
Meanwhile, Belgium newspaper HLN are reiterating that Arsenal need to offload first but add that 'cheaper alternatives' are also being looked at due to the club's £120m spending spree so far. Whether or not this is the case remains to be seen, although it would be strange considering Tielemans is potentially available for as little as £25m - £30m.
If Arsenal are indeed exploring low-cost alternatives, however, it may hint that a winger has perhaps jumped to the top of the list for Arteta. Adding a new wide player to the team this summer has always been a real possibility, especially with the uncertain future that is currently hanging over Nicolas Pepe. The unsuccessful pursuit of Raphinha is another strong indication that the hunt for someone in this position is very much active.
PSV Eindhoven's Cody Gakpo is a candidate, football.london understands. It follows the 23-year-old's standout season in the Eredivisie, scoring 21 goals and providing 15 assists in 46 appearances. The Netherlands international is primarily a left-winger but can operate on the right and also through the middle, offering plenty of versatility across the frontline.
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