‘Loved his time here’ - Intriguing update delivered on Newcastle United and Arsenal transfer target

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed he is determined to retain the services of reported Newcastle United and Arsenal target Youri Tielemans.

The future of the Belgium international has been the subject of intense speculation over the last six months and there were strong suggestions Arsenal made several attempts to secure a deal for the midfielder during the final days of the summer transfer window.

Newcastle are also believed to have have considered a move for Tielemans as they look to add a ‘number six’ to their squad during the next month. The former Monaco star is heading into the final months of his current deal at the King Power Stadium and is yet to commit his future to the Foxes.

Tielemans is now able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a club outside of England before moving on a free transfer deal at the end of the season. However, manager Rodgers has confirmed he is still hopeful the 25-year-old will sign a new deal and described the midfielder a ‘a coach’s dream’.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday night’s home defeat against Fulham, the Foxes boss said: “It has gone on for a while, but it’s all based around the player, ultimately. His commitment is no less now to what it was when I first came in – if not even more. He’s loved his time here and is still loving his time here.

“I respect that he’s in his last year, of course I want to tie him down. He’s been a brilliant player for this club and is still at a great age. It’s something that has to be right for all parties. Until I’m told he’s not here, we work very well together. He’s a coach’s dream, with his professionalism and view of the game. Nothing changes for me in that aspect, we just continue to hopefully find a resolution to it and have him sign here. I think it’s one where we want to do everything we can to convince him to stay.”