Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of highly-rated Paris Saint-Germain youngster Emmanuel Mbemba, making an approach to sign the versatile defender on a free transfer this summer.
The 18-year-old, whose contract with PSG expires at the end of June, has been offered fresh terms by the French champions but is understood to be considering a move to the Premier League.
Any deal would require Arsenal to pay training compensation, which is expected to exceed £150,000.
The Premier League champions have already held discussions with Mbemba's representatives, outlining a development pathway designed to convince the France youth international that north London is the ideal destination for his next step.
Arsenal reportedly pointed to the successful progression of William Saliba, who gained valuable experience on loan at Marseille before establishing himself as one of the club’s key defenders.
Mbemba is believed to be attracted by Arsenal’s long-term project under Mikel Arteta, with the club’s recent success and stability playing a significant role in his thinking.
As part of their plans, Arsenal have proposed a loan spell in Europe until January 2027, giving the teenager an opportunity to gain senior experience while securing the requirements needed for a work permit in England.
Although Mbemba has primarily featured as a central defender throughout his time in PSG’s academy, Arsenal view him as a player capable of developing into a left-back in the future, adding versatility to their defensive options.
The talented defender recently captained PSG’s Under-19 side to victory in the French Youth Cup at the Stade de France, further enhancing his reputation as one of the club’s brightest young prospects.
With his future yet to be decided, Arsenal appear to be in a strong position to secure the signature of one of French football’s most promising teenage defenders.
