Jamie Vardy to Arsenal: Gunners legend admits he is 'flabbergasted' by move for Leicester City star

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has admitted he is "flabbergasted" by the club's pursuit of Jamie Vardy. The Gunners are currently looking to seal a deal for the 29-year-old striker, having already met his £20m ($29.1m) release clause, but Merson does not understand the logic behind the move.

Vardy, who helped Leicester City win the Premier League crown last season, has held talks with the Gunners, but any transfer has now been put on hold until after the European Championships in France. Merson said he cannot understand why Arsenal would try to sign a player of Vardy's ilk.

"I'm shocked. I'm absolutely flabbergasted with it," the former Highbury star told TalkSport. "Arsenal don't get the ball forward quick enough for Jamie Vardy. No disrespect, but he plays at Leicester where everyone goes and has a go at them.

"Twenty of his goals must have been over the top, balls that he is running on to, beat the goalie and great finish. You play for Arsenal, you kick off and the other team sit ten men behind the ball."

Merson said that while Vardy's attributes make him the ideal centre-forward for Leicester's counter-attacking approach, he doubts if his style would suit Arsenal.

"Leicester suits Jamie Vardy, in my opinion. He is perfect for them. They play his way, they get the ball forward very quickly and he will keep on causing havoc. If he goes to Arsenal, I just don't see it," he said.