Multiple sources have now confirmed that Arsenal retain an interest in Blackburn Rovers forward Igor Tyjon for a January transfer, with the striker rejecting a contract extension.
Earlier this week, we covered rumours on social media that Arsenal are interested in a January move for Blackburn Rovers youth striker Igor Tyjon, and further sources have since confirmed the claims.
James McNicholas reports for The Athletic that Tyjon remains of interest to the Gunners, adding that the forward could potentially move in January after turning down a professional contract with his current club.
Then Simon Collings reports for The S*n that after Arsenal had multiple seven-figure bids for Tyjon turned down last summer, Rovers are now reluctantly accepting that the player will leave, and Arsenal still want to sign him.
Rovers boss Valerien Ismael has recently confirmed that contract negotiations with Tyjon have failed, saying: “We were in discussion with him to extend his contract. He decided not to extend his contract.
“So for us, it’s clear that from 1st of January, he might leave the club. So that’s why we are focused now on the players who are for us, for the future.”
Football insider Hand of Arsenal then reported that Arsenal are looking to complete the signing and are currently leading the race for the striker.
According to the same source, Arsenal’s biggest summer bid for Tyjon was worth around £2.2m, but a fee closer to £1m is now suggested as suitable. Tyjon’s scholarship deal is up in the summer, so this is Rovers’ last chance to negotiate more than the basic training compensation fee.
The 17-year-old has notched three goals and one assist in just three Premier League 2 appearances this season, as he’s struggled for minutes in light of his stance on a new deal.
Tyjon has at least had some chances recently though, playing in the FA Youth Cup win over Southampton and a Premier League Cup win over Watford, before making the bench for the Rovers first team against Charlton Athletic on Sunday.