Arsenal are laying the groundwork for a busy summer transfer window, with a new left-winger high on the agenda and a clutch of first-team regulars facing uncertain futures at the Emirates. Sky Sports News has outlined the latest developments, headlined by the club’s intensifying admiration for Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers.
Arsenal intensify pursuit of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers
The Gunners have made a left-sided attacker their priority, and Morgan Rogers has emerged as the leading candidate. Villa, despite securing Champions League football, are still expected to listen to offers in the region of £80m for the 23-year-old, who signed a long-term contract until 2031 last November. That deal puts the Midlands club in a commanding position, and no official talks between the clubs have taken place yet. Chelsea and Manchester United are also monitoring the situation.
Independently of the Rogers chase, Arsenal have explored a move for Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis. The Greek winger, 24, would cost around £34m – a record fee for the Belgian Pro League. However, Bruges are reluctant to sell a player who committed his future until 2029 last summer.
“Villa qualifying for the Champions League will have little bearing on Rogers' future,” said Sky Sports News’ Dharmesh Sheth.
Midfield target: Rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi
Central midfield is another area Arsenal want to reinforce, and Ayyoub Bouaddi is firmly on their radar. The 18-year-old Moroccan drew global attention with a standout World Cup display against Brazil, but Premier League scouts have tracked him long before. Lille tied Bouaddi to a new contract until 2029 in December, meaning any suitor will face a significant fee. Manchester United have also expressed interest but are currently focusing on other midfield targets.
Exits on the cards: Jesus, Trossard, Martinelli face uncertain futures
With new signings expected in attack, Arsenal are prepared to listen to offers for Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli. All three have just one year remaining on their contracts – though the club holds a 12-month option on Martinelli. Jesus is likely to command a fee of £18m-£20m, despite limited game time. One source has told Sky Sports News that a “key player” could depart, raising further questions over the futures of Ethan Nwaneri and Ben White. Nwaneri, 19, spent an unproductive loan at Marseille where his commitment was publicly questioned, while White’s recovery from a knee injury is on track but his long-term role remains unclear.
Key Takeaways
- Morgan Rogers is Arsenal’s top left-wing target but Aston Villa’s £80m valuation and 2031 contract pose significant hurdles.
- Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, 18, is being closely watched after excelling at the World Cup and for Lille.
- The club is open to offers for Jesus, Trossard, and Martinelli, with Jesus priced at around £18-20m.
- Homegrown talents Ethan Nwaneri and Ben White also face uncertain summers, potentially adding to the exodus.
Quick Facts
Priority position: Left-winger
Main target: Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Rogers contract: Until 2031
Asking price for Rogers: ~£80m
Midfield target: Ayyoub Bouaddi (Lille)
Attackers with one year left: Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli (option)
Jesus valuation: £18m-£20m
