Jason Cundy has asked Arsenal why they have not made an offer for Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse yet.
The 27-year-old, who has four-and-a-half years remaining on his contract with the Saints, has been at the south coast-based club since breaking through their famous academy system.
Ward-Prowse has gone on to become a seasoned England international and one of the finest midfield talents in the Premier League – with his ability from dead-ball situations unmatched.
The England midfielder impressed for Southampton as they came back from 1-0 down to beat Tottenham 3-2 on Wednesday evening, with Ward-Prowse providing assists for the Saints’ final two goals.
Cundy, formerly of Chelsea, has now questioned why Arsenal have not made a move for the Southampton captain, with Mikel Arteta determined to add a new midfielder to his squad.
Speaking on talkSPORT, via HITC, Cundy said: “Why haven’t Arsenal gone in and made a bid? I totally agree with you, Ward-Prowse would not look out of place [in a top six side].”
Tielemans interest
Another option for Arsenal is Youri Tielemans of Leicester City – who has less than 18 months remaining of his contract at the King Power Stadium.
A report from Goal last month claimed that the Gunners have held talks with the Belgium international’s entourage over a possible move, with his future at the Foxes looking uncertain.
(Image: Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images)
Speaking about Tielemans’ situation in mid-January, Brendan Rodgers admitted that the club are already preparing for life without the talented midfielder.
Rodgers said: “You always have to [prepare for life without Tielemans], that is key. I have said it before about the pipeline of players.
“You always have to be looking ahead, that’s important. Sometimes it happens unexpectedly, other times you know where the situation is at.
“He is at an age and a stage in his contract where he has to ensure he looks at every option. I would love it to be here at Leicester, but I understand it’s a very short career.
“For players, it’s about ambition, the challenge and sometimes about a different environment. We have seen before that players will move on even after winning the Champions League.
“We have a close relationship, it’s really strong. I made a commitment to him when I first came in that we would improve him as a player and he believes in the environment.
“Once the players are committed, focused and professional it’s never a worry for me. You can see Youri loves being here and you have to respect these guys’ careers are short.”