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Belgian superstar Youri Tielemans has revealed he turned down the chance to sign for Arsenal and opted to play in front of just 15,000 people at Monaco.

Tielmans caught the eye of Arsene Wenger and a number of top European clubs following his impressive displays for Anderlecht as they secured the Belgian title last season.

The 20-year-old was named Player of the Year in Belgium and has already made his breakthrough into the senior side under Roberto Martinez as he looks to be a major star at the World Cup next summer.

But Tielemans has now revealed that he rejected the opportunity to secure a lucrative move into the Premier League and opted to play in the French League following his £22miliion move to Monaco.

(Image: Getty)

Tielemans said: "I knew not much was going to change with Arsenal’s squad.

“Their management wanted to keep the same group of players together in order to finish high in the Premier League.

(Image: Action Images via Reuters)

“I had to be honest with myself and take a look at the midfielders Arsenal have got. They are top-class players.

"I knew that I would not get many first-team chances with them, so I didn't give any more thought to joining them.

"I never said no to any club. But I made it clear where I wanted to go."