Arsenal have placed West Ham United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka on their list of defensive targets for the summer transfer window, according to reports. The 28-year-old former Manchester United player joined West Ham for £15 million in 2024 and has spent two seasons at the London Stadium. Wan-Bissaka also represented DR Congo at the World Cup, where the African nation was eliminated by England in the round of 32.
Defensive reinforcements needed
Mikel Arteta is seeking to bolster his defensive options this summer due to William Saliba's back injury. The France international will not undergo surgery but will instead follow a period of rehabilitation, as confirmed by Arsenal on Wednesday. The club's statement read: 'William Saliba has returned to us from World Cup duty, where he played an integral role in France reaching the semi-finals of the competition. Subsequent specialist reviews on William’s return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation. Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but William should now commence a managed recovery programme. William’s rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period. Everyone is fully focused on supporting William to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.'
Wan-Bissaka and other targets
According to the Daily Mail, Wan-Bissaka is on Arsenal's shortlist alongside Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa and John Stones, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City this summer. West Ham are demanding a £25 million fee for Wan-Bissaka, but Arsenal are not prepared to meet that valuation. Similarly, Arsenal are far apart in their valuation of Konsa, with Villa demanding £60 million while the Premier League champions want a deal for around £35 million.
Timber also sidelined
Arsenal are also set to be without Jurrien Timber for the start of their pre-season campaign. Timber missed the Netherlands' World Cup campaign due to a groin injury and is still undergoing rehabilitation. The 25-year-old said on Monday: 'Getting there slowly, trying hard. Been rehabbing over the summer, hopefully back soon.'
