Arsenal and Chelsea linked with James Maddison transfer but warned Leicester star’s fee will be an ‘issue’
ARSENAL are reportedly eyeing up a shock move for Leicester playmaker James Maddison as a replacement for Martin Odegaard.
Mikel Arteta had been keen to permanently sign the Norway international, but it is understood he will be remaining at Real Madrid.
And the Gunners then lost out to Aston Villa in the race to prise Emiliano Buedia away from Norwich.
But according to reputable news source The AFC Bell, the North London giants have England midfielder Maddison in their sights.
They state that the 24-year-old, valued at around £50million by the CIES Football Observatory, has emerged as a key target and a move to the Emirates cannot be ruled out.
And Football.London journalist Chris Wheatley has confirmed that the ex-Canaries ace is indeed being monitored by Arsenal.
He even suggested that Chelsea could join the race to sign him should Hakim Ziyech depart Stamford Bridge after just one year.
The Moroccan has been linked with a move to Serie A side Napoli, while AC Milan are also said to be keen.
Leicester are likely to drive a hard bargain for Maddison, who chipped in with 11 goals and ten assists in 42 games this season.
He is currently tied down at the King Power Stadium until 2024, after signing a new deal worth around £95,000-a-week last year.
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Wheatley tweeted: “Seen some rumours about James Maddison to Arsenal.
“I’m told that Mikel Arteta is a huge fan of Maddison and he’s certainly a target – but the fee will be an issue.
“Chelsea also want him if they lose Ziyech.”
Arsenal also remain keen to bring Belgian starlet Albert Sambi Lokonga to the club from Anderlecht.
It has been reported that a £13m offer has been submitted for the 21-year-old who is seeking an exit away this summer.
SunSport reported earlier this month how the youngster was on Arsenal’s radar with Granit Xhaka, Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira all facing an uncertain future.