Arsenal make first James Maddison transfer proposal

Arsenal In Discussions With Leicester Over Stunning James Maddison Deal

What are Arsenal’s chances?

Well, another London club has also made a proposal to Leicester this summer, which is in every which way detrimental to their chances. Not just because of the competition, but additionally as it will help spike up the price. That isn’t ideal.

Who is the other unnamed club? Looking across the capital, your money would be on Tottenham due to Chelsea being bloated in that department and currently seeking to re-buy Romelu Lukaku for £90m+. West Ham may not be out of the question.

Negotiations are said to be ‘very slow’ and ‘like a game of chess’ but the player is keen on a move to north London, which is obviously beneficial. Joe Willock’s impending sale could also help Arsenal make a concrete move.

As for who could be included, Ainsley Maitland-Niles is the standout candidate. Brendan Rodgers tried to sign the versatile man back in January before he moved to West Brom, and it’s been reported this summer that their interest remains in tact. Estimating his worth to be at around £15-£20m, it’s an idea that will undoubtedly have been floated about. However, ‘several players’ have been mentioned in talks.

Reiss Nelson is another up for sale and while Eddie Nketiah is too, Patson Daka’s signing from Red Bull Salzburg nips that one in the bud.

This is a move that may finally begin to blossom. Behind the scenes work will have been underway with intermediaries for weeks, if not longer, but this is the first time it’s become public knowledge. Even if talks are slow and any potential deal could go right down to the wire, more could be made clear in the coming days.