Arsenal’s Long-Term Interest in €60m Wolves Defender Could Spark Summer Bidding War | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Rayan Ait-Nouri: Potential Transfer Battle with AC Milan

Arsenal’s transfer activity this summer is expected to be as dynamic as ever, and one of their targets could be Wolves left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri. While the Gunners have long shown interest in the 23-year-old, they will face stiff competition, particularly from AC Milan, who are also keen on acquiring the talented defender. With a price tag reportedly set at €60 million, Ait-Nouri could be one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming transfer window.

Arsenal’s Long-Standing Interest in Ait-Nouri

According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal’s interest in Ait-Nouri is not a recent development. “Sources with a close understanding of the situation have informed CaughtOffside that the Gunners have a long-standing interest in Ait-Nouri, who could be available for around €60m this summer.” This report confirms that the Gunners have been monitoring Ait-Nouri for some time, recognising his impressive performances for Wolves, especially as the club battles through a difficult season.

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Ait-Nouri has been a standout player for Wolves, showing not only defensive solidity but also the ability to contribute to the attack, making him an ideal fit for a team like Arsenal, who are looking to strengthen their squad across all areas. His pace, technique, and versatility could complement Arsenal’s attacking style and give Mikel Arteta another option at left-back.

Competition from AC Milan

While Arsenal’s interest is well-documented, they are not alone in the race for Ait-Nouri’s signature. AC Milan, who are undergoing a transitional period of their own, are reportedly keen on adding the French-Algerian international to their ranks. Milan’s interest has been fuelled by doubts over Theo Hernandez’s future at the club. Hernandez, whose contract at San Siro expires in just over a year, has attracted attention from Real Madrid, and Milan are looking at Ait-Nouri as a potential replacement.

CaughtOffside understands that Milan’s interest is strong, but whether they can afford the €60 million asking price is another matter. With the financial power of Premier League clubs often exceeding that of Serie A sides, Arsenal may have an edge in negotiations. However, if Milan can secure a deal abroad, they would likely prefer to sell Ait-Nouri to a club outside the Premier League.

Photo: IMAGO

Potential Impact at Arsenal

Arsenal’s defensive depth is something that Mikel Arteta is looking to improve this summer. The Gunners already have strong options at left-back, with Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney both competing for the role. However, reports suggest that both could leave the club this summer, creating space for a new arrival.

Arsenal’s interest in Ait-Nouri makes sense in this context. The Frenchman has established himself as one of the top young left-backs in the Premier League, and his ability to offer both defensive stability and attacking support would fit well into Arteta’s system. However, with Myles Lewis-Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori also strong options in the left-back position, Arsenal’s need for Ait-Nouri may not be as pressing as Milan’s, although the Gunners are keen to continue building their squad for future challenges.

Photo: IMAGO

Future of Rayan Ait-Nouri

The uncertainty surrounding Ait-Nouri’s future at Wolves comes at a time when the club is expected to make difficult decisions regarding their squad. Wolves are reportedly open to selling Ait-Nouri, but it remains to be seen whether a move abroad or to a Premier League rival will be the most likely outcome. As the transfer window approaches, Arsenal’s long-standing interest could lead to a significant bid, but they will have to fend off competition from Milan, as well as from Liverpool and Manchester United, who are also reportedly keen on the player.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal, the prospect of signing Rayan Ait-Nouri is certainly an exciting one. The 23-year-old has shown his potential as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League, and his ability to play both defensively and in attack would be an excellent fit for Mikel Arteta’s high-pressing, fast-transition style. While the competition from AC Milan and other clubs is fierce, Arsenal’s financial strength could give them the edge in securing Ait-Nouri’s services.

However, there are questions about whether Arsenal need another left-back at this moment. With the possible departures of Kieran Tierney and Oleksandr Zinchenko, adding Ait-Nouri could be the right move to ensure depth and quality at the back. His signing would also offer competition and allow Arteta to rotate effectively, something crucial for a team that aims to challenge for multiple trophies.

Ultimately, if Ait-Nouri can continue to develop as he has at Wolves, he would represent a smart addition to Arsenal’s defence. Given his youth, versatility, and potential, this could be a move that benefits the club in the long term. With Arsenal’s ambitions on the rise, bringing in top-tier talent like Ait-Nouri is exactly the type of move needed to compete at the highest level.