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Arsenal move to sign free agent winger Emmanuel Rao

By on June 20, 2025

Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a move for 19-year-old Italian winger Emanuele Rao, according to journalist Gianluigi Longari.

The talented teenager is now a free agent after his former club, SPAL, failed to register for the 2024/25 Serie C season due to bankruptcy.

Arsenal are said to be the Premier League club “working most actively” to land Rao ahead of other top sides across Europe, including AC Milan.

Reports claim that several Serie A clubs, such as Juventus, Napoli, and Inter Milan, have also shown interest in the player.

Rao impressed during the 2023/24 campaign, playing 38 matches in Italy’s third tier, scoring five goals and recording two assists.

Despite playing in a lower league, his performances were strong enough to draw attention from top-flight teams at home and abroad.

The youngster was one of the youngest scorers in Serie C last season and is seen as one of Italy’s rising stars in his position.

Free deal suits Arsenal’s long-term plans

With SPAL no longer a professional club, Rao can now join any team without a transfer fee. This makes him a very appealing option for many clubs.

Arsenal’s interest matches Mikel Arteta’s long-term plan to add more youth to the squad and build for future success.

Arteta has been keen on signing players who can grow into key roles rather than relying only on experienced names.

Rao is known for his quick pace, confident dribbling, and ability to play in different attacking roles across the left side.

Arsenal’s scouting team has been watching him closely and are believed to be pleased with both his ability and maturity on the pitch.

The need to strengthen wide areas has become clear after the 2024/25 season, especially with ongoing injury worries for Bukayo Saka.

Also, the future of some of Arsenal’s other wingers remains unclear, which makes the signing of a versatile young option important.

Arsenal are now hoping to move fast and beat other clubs to Rao’s signature, as they continue to plan ahead of the new season.