Paul Merson “flabbergasted” by Arsenal’s interest in Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson has admitted that he is bemused by the club’s decision to move for Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy.

The Gunners are reported to have triggered the forward’s £20m release clause in his contract, which he signed just four months ago.

Vardy, who scored 24 Premier League goals in Leicester’s historic title-winning campaign, is expected tomake a decision regarding a possible transfer after England’s Euro 2016 campaign.

Talk of a move has surprised Merson, who believes that Vardy is not suited to Arsenal’s style of play.

“I’m shocked,” Merson told talkSPORT. “I’m absolutely flabbergasted with it. 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

“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. That is no disrespect to him. I’m not saying he won’t get goals but I don’t think he will get enough opportunities [at Arsenal].”

Vardy also made a Premier League record by scoring in 11 consecutive games.