Arsenal are weighing up a surprise move for former Manchester United full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka as the club continues its search for additional strength at right-back ahead of the new season.
The Gunners are assessing a wide range of defensive options as uncertainty surrounds Ben White’s future, with the England international attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League, across Europe and in the Middle East. Although White is currently considered more likely to move abroad, a knee ligament injury suffered towards the end of last season has complicated any immediate transfer plans.
Despite White’s injury, Arsenal’s recruitment drive has continued.
Sporting director Andrea Berta has overseen extensive scouting work in recent months, with the club identifying numerous candidates capable of providing competition for Jurrien Timber in what is expected to be another demanding campaign across domestic and European competitions.
Among the experienced players under consideration are Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, who is capable of operating at right-back as well as centrally, and Barcelona’s Jules Koundé, whose representatives have made him available to several leading European clubs this summer.
Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio, Celta Vigo’s Óscar Mingueza, RB Leipzig’s Lutsharel Geertruida, Monaco’s Vanderson, Roma’s Wesley, Feyenoord youngster Givairo Read and Sporting CP defender Iván Fresneda have also featured in Arsenal’s scouting discussions as the club evaluates the best fit for Arteta’s tactical system. Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento is admired too, although concerns over his injury record and the expected transfer fee have pushed that option down the priority list.
One name, however, has emerged as an unexpected contender.
TEAMtalk reports that Wan-Bissaka has become a genuine option and is one of 11 right-backs currently being considered by Arsenal as they finalise their shortlist. The 28-year-old is expected to become available following West Ham United’s relegation, with several clubs already monitoring his situation.
Wan-Bissaka joined West Ham from Manchester United in 2024 and remains highly regarded for his defensive ability, particularly in one-on-one situations. His strengths have reportedly impressed Arsenal’s recruitment staff, who believe his profile could complement Timber by providing another reliable defensive option capable of dealing with elite wingers.
Interest in the defender is not limited to Arsenal.
Everton and Turkish side Fenerbahçe are also understood to be tracking Wan-Bissaka, while further enquiries are expected as the transfer window progresses.
Although Arsenal have carried out detailed background checks on the former England Under-21 international, no final decision has been made.
The club continue to assess several candidates before determining which player best fits Arteta’s plans, with the future of White likely to influence the final outcome.
For now, Wan-Bissaka’s name remains firmly under consideration as Arsenal prepare for a summer in which reinforcing the right side of their defence has become one of the club’s transfer priorities.
