Arsenal target PSG teenager Mbemba as Arteta plans post-title squad overhaul

Arsenal have made a move for Paris Saint-Germain teenager Emmanuel Mbemba, according to French outlet Le Parisien, with the Gunners presenting their sporting project to the 18-year-old defender after scouting him multiple times throughout the season.

Mbemba, primarily a left-back who can also play in central defence, has been offered professional terms by PSG but has yet to sign them. Cross-city rivals Paris FC had been hoping to secure the youngster on a free transfer, but Arsenal have now entered the picture. PSG are keen to retain the player, who played a key role in their Under-18 side winning the Coupe Gambardella this season, though his future remains unresolved.

One potential complication is a work permit. Reports from the French press suggest Mbemba may not immediately qualify to play in England, though that is not expected to be a decisive obstacle for a club building long-term squad depth. Arsenal were a penalty shootout away from adding the Champions League title to the Premier League trophy they won this season, ending a 22-year wait for the English top-flight crown.

Mbemba’s versatility fits a profile Mikel Arteta has consistently sought, and the Spaniard is planning a significant summer window across several positions. Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa is understood to be Arsenal’s primary target, though Villa have made clear they will not be pressured into selling. Arsenal privately believe they would be Rogers’ preferred destination if the England international were to push for a move away from Villa Park.

The scale of last summer’s spending may require Arsenal to raise funds through player sales before completing new arrivals, with a number of squad members facing uncertain futures at the club.

Co-owner Josh Kroenke has already signalled that winning the Premier League title will not slow the club’s ambitions. “The business never stops,” Kroenke said. “Right now there are already other teams who are trying to strengthen and come at us for next season. We need to be aware of that. We’ve already had a few different conversations about different areas where we think we can improve on and off the pitch.”

Kroenke added that the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, would shape the timing of the window but would not derail Arsenal’s plans.