Journalist Tom Collomosse believes Manchester United target Youri Tielemans is ‘a bit underrated’ amid increasing speculation over his long-term future.

The Leicester City midfielder appears to be edging ever closer towards the King Power Stadium exit door following a highly successful stint with the club.

What is the latest news involving Tielemans?

According to well-known journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Tielemans has rejected the offer of a new contract and will not extend his stay with the Foxes.

The highly-rated 24-year-old’s current deal is set to expire in 18 months’ time, meaning Leicester may be forced to sell their prized asset in the summer or risk losing him on a free transfer.

And a recent report from the Daily Mail has claimed the 47-cap Belgium international is not set to be short of potential suitors when the market re-opens.

It’s claimed that Liverpool, Arsenal, Juventus and Real Madrid have all joined United in the race for Tielemans’ signature, with Leicester reportedly dropping their asking price to £35 million.

The Midlands outfit were believed to value the technically gifted ace at around £60m previously but have dropped that figure considerably due to his contract situation.

What has Collomosse said about Tielemans?

Since arriving on English shores on an initial loan move from Monaco back in January 2019, Tielemans has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.

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In 136 appearances for Leicester, the engine room operator has bagged 24 goals and laid on a further 22 assists for his teammates, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield along the way.

But Collomosse still believes Tielemans is underappreciated and lauded his ‘remarkable’ fitness record in an interview with GiveMeSport.

He told GMS: “Yeah, I think he's a bit underrated by people who don't see that much of him, but he's a really excellent player. His fitness record is remarkable; he’s hardly missed a game. He had a bit of a spell out this year, but that was his first for about two years.”

Do United need a new central midfielder?

United are currently going through a transitional period under interim manager Ralf Rangnick, and a new boss is expected to arrive for 2022/23.

And sorting out the midfield may be one of the first tasks Rangnick’s successor faces.

With Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata all out of contract in the summer and Donny van de Beek’s future far from certain, significant acquisitions may be required.

Therefore, Tielemans could be the ideal candidate to come in and sure up United’s options in the middle of the pitch.