Arsenal’s quest for a midfield partner for Declan Rice has hit a potential snag, with Leicester City‘s Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall seemingly slipping through their grasp.

While the Gunners reportedly hold interest in the 25-year-old midfielder, Brighton & Hove Albion have stormed to the front of the queue, leaving Arsenal facing a financial and competitive mountain to climb.

Dewsbury-Hall, a key cog in Leicester‘s Championship surge, has attracted scouts across the top flight. His nine goals and nine assists this season showcase his attacking prowess, and Leicester values their academy graduate at a hefty £30 million according to The Athletic.

This price tag, coupled with Arsenal’s Financial Fair Play constraints, throws a spanner in the works for their alleged pursuit. Selling players to generate funds might be necessary, but with limited January business and a focus on defensive reinforcements, the Gunners face a tough decision.

Meanwhile, Brighton have stolen the initiative. Talks with Leicester are said to be progressing.

Further complicating matters for Arsenal (and Brighton) is Leicester‘s own stance. The Foxes, seven points clear atop the Championship and dreaming of an immediate Premier League return, are in no rush to sell their prized asset and Sky Sports claim they may opt to keep him, for the remainder of the season at least.