Arsenal are reportedly considering a move for AS Roma wing-back Wesley Franca as part of their plans for the 2027 transfer window.
According to Sport Witness, the reigning Premier League champions are exploring options for the right side of their defence as Mikel Arteta looks to improve depth and consistency in the position.
The need for another right-back has been influenced by recurring injuries involving Jurrien Timber and Ben White. Their fitness issues have made it difficult for Arsenal to maintain continuity in the position throughout the season.
Wesley has now emerged as one of the players attracting Arsenal’s attention.
However, a potential deal could be complicated by Roma’s reported asking price. The Italian club are said to value the Brazilian defender at around £50 million.
Arsenal Searching for More Right-Back Options
Arsenal’s interest in Wesley comes as the club looks for greater stability on the right side of its defence.
Timber and White have both experienced periods affected by injury, creating challenges for Arteta when managing his defensive rotation.
Having reliable alternatives is particularly important for a team competing across multiple competitions.
Arsenal are therefore reportedly looking ahead to 2027 rather than waiting until another injury problem creates an immediate need.
Wesley fits the profile of a player who could provide defensive depth while also offering additional qualities when Arsenal have possession.
Wesley Has Become an Important Player at Roma
Wesley’s development at AS Roma is one of the main reasons Arsenal are reportedly interested.
The defender only joined the Italian club last year but has already established himself as an important member of the squad.
Primarily a right-back, Wesley can also operate on the left side of the defence.
That versatility could be particularly attractive to Arsenal.
A player capable of covering both sides would give Arteta another option when managing injuries, rotation and tactical changes throughout a long season.
His development in Italy has also seen his market value increase significantly.
What Makes Wesley Attractive to Arsenal?
Wesley offers several characteristics that can complement a possession-oriented team.
His ability to carry the ball allows him to progress play from deeper areas, while his movement on the flank can create additional attacking options.
He can also:
- Drive forward from the defensive line.
- Penetrate from wide positions.
- Stretch opposition defensive structures.
- Move into central areas during attacks.
- Operate on either side of the defence.
Those qualities make him more than a traditional defensive full-back.
For Arsenal, the possibility of adding a defender who can contribute to both defensive and attacking phases could make Wesley an interesting target.
His age also means he would still have room to develop if a transfer eventually takes place.
Roma Could Demand Around £50 Million
The biggest obstacle to an Arsenal move could be the financial side of the deal.
Sport Witness reports that Roma could demand around £50 million for Wesley in 2027.
That valuation reflects his rapid development since arriving in Italy and his growing importance within Roma’s squad.
For Arsenal, such a fee would represent a significant investment in a defensive player.
The Gunners would therefore need to decide whether Wesley provides enough value to justify the reported asking price.
A potential transfer is also still some distance away, meaning the player’s valuation could change before the 2027 window opens.
Arsenal Could Face Competition
Arsenal may not be the only Premier League club interested in Wesley.
Manchester City have previously monitored the Brazilian defender, while Manchester United and Newcastle could also revive their interest.
That creates the possibility of a competitive transfer race if several clubs decide to make formal approaches.
Competition could also strengthen Roma’s negotiating position.
If multiple Premier League clubs are prepared to consider Wesley, the Italian side may have little reason to lower its valuation.
For Arsenal, that could make early planning important if Arteta and the club decide that Wesley is the right defensive target.
Why the 2027 Window Could Be Important
Arsenal’s reported interest appears to be part of a longer-term recruitment strategy rather than an immediate transfer operation.
The club is looking ahead to potential squad requirements and considering how to strengthen positions where injuries have created problems.
That approach could allow Arsenal to assess Wesley’s progress over the coming months before deciding whether to make a serious offer.
Several factors will likely influence that decision:
- Wesley’s continued development at Roma.
- The fitness situation involving Timber and White.
- Arsenal’s defensive requirements.
- Roma’s eventual asking price.
- Interest from other Premier League clubs.
All of those elements could determine whether the reported interest develops into an actual transfer.
Wesley Transfer Remains One to Watch
Arsenal’s reported interest in Wesley Franca adds another name to the club’s potential defensive recruitment plans for 2027.
The Brazilian has developed into an important player for Roma, while his ability to operate at both full-back positions could make him an attractive option for Arteta.
However, the reported £50 million asking price means Arsenal would need to carefully consider the investment.
Competition from Manchester City, Manchester United and Newcastle could make the situation even more complicated.
For now, there is no indication that a deal has been agreed or that Arsenal have made a formal offer.
The Gunners appear to be monitoring their options, with Wesley emerging as one of the defenders who could potentially strengthen the squad in 2027.
ALSO READ :
