Arsenal to make cash-plus-Xhaka offer for Leicester's Wilfred Ndidi | OneFootball

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Leicester’s Wilfred Ndidi as new manager Mikel Arteta looks to add some steel to their lightweight midfield.

The Gunners have been porous so far this season, and the 27 goals they have conceded has resulted in them having a goal difference of minus three with almost half the season played.

Ndidi, who joined Leicester from Genk in January 2017, has developed into one of the most effective defensive midfielders in the Premier League.

Leicester have leaked just 14 goals so far, leaving them with the joint lowest amount along with Liverpool.

Much of the credit for that must go to Ndidi, who provides excellent protection for centre-back pairing Jonny Evans and Çağlar Söyüncü.

While the Foxes would be loth to let the 23-year-old leave, Leicestershire Live reports that Arsenal are ready to table a cash-plus-player deal to force the deal through.

The North Londoners are set to offer £40m plus Granit Xhaka.

The Switzerland international is almost certain to leave the Emirates in January. Xhaka was chosen as Arsenal skipper by his team-mates earlier in the season, but was stripped of the captaincy following a bust-up with fans during the 2-2 with Crystal Palace in November.

Xhaka has reportedly already agreed personal terms with German side Hertha Berlin.

However, a switch to high-flying Leicester and the high probability of playing Champions League football next season could tempt him to remain in England.