According to recent reports in the last 24 hours, Ligue 1 leaders AS Monaco are closing in on a surprising summer move for Anderlecht’s Youri Tielemans – whom Arsenal have scouted tirelessly in recent years.

Tielemans turns 20 next month and has been heavily linked with a possible switch to north London. We first reported the news in May 2015, which just highlights how long our interest has been public.

Despite suggestions that the talented Belgian midfielder would be playing Premier League football next season, this all now seems premature and inaction could come back to haunt England’s top sides.

 

With 19 goals and 18 assists across all competitions this season, his ever-growing importance to Anderlecht cannot be understated. Highly-rated across the continent, he is expected to make a move and this summer seems the perfect opportunity to actively seek an upgrade.

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - APRIL 13: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Manchester United holds off Youri Tielemans of RSC Anderlecht uring the UEFA Europa League quarter final first leg match between RSC Anderlecht and Manchester United at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium on April 13, 2017 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – APRIL 13: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Manchester United holds off Youri Tielemans of RSC Anderlecht uring the UEFA Europa League quarter final first leg match between RSC Anderlecht and Manchester United at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium on April 13, 2017 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Anderlecht have fallen short domestically in both of the previous seasons but Tielemans’ significant contribution to the team’s goals this term means they’re likely to lift the Belgian Pro League trophy this time around.

Having enjoyed a lengthy UEFA Europa League journey before a 3-2 defeat against Manchester United last week, it’s clear that many will be advising Tielemans to look forward and play for a side that can firmly challenge Europe’s elite in the Champions League.

Monaco have caught many pundits by surprise and with a youthful side, this move would prove beneficial for Tielemans’ development – even if potential suitors come in with a bigger offer in the seasons that follow.

Already expecting a plethora of bids from sides for their key stars, managing to wrap this deal up before the window begins would be a real coup for Leonardo Jardim’s side if completed.

A deal a team like Arsenal, who would also benefit from his quality in midfield, should’ve previously thought about.