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Arsenal now eyeing summer swoop for AS Roma right-back Wesley Franca

By on May 11, 2026

Arsenal have joined the race to sign AS Roma’s exciting Brazilian right-back Wesley Franca next summer, according to Ekrem Konur.

Wesley came through the ranks at Flamengo’s prestigious academy, which has produced the likes of Vinícius Júnior and Lucas Paqueta.

He won several titles while coming through the youth ranks, capped by leading the Rio de Janeiro-based outfit to the prestigious Brasileiro U17S and Copa do Brasil U17S titles in 2021.

He has also made his mark on the international stage, playing his part in Brazil’s victory at the South American U15S Championship in 2019, where he first caught the eye.

The 22-year-old also shone in last summer’s Club World Cup, where Flamengo reached the round of 16 before joining Roma soon after the tournament.

Since moving to the Stadio Olimpico, France has been one of the best fullbacks in Serie A this season, featuring in 29 games and scoring five goals, with several clubs now eyeing a move for his signature ahead of next summer.

Now, according to Konur, Arsenal have entered the race to sign the Brazilian international next summer to reinforce Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Despite this being his first season in Europe, the youngster has settled quickly, hitting the ground running.

With a contract until 2030, a deal won’t come cheaply, with Konur adding that the Giallorossi value the exciting right-back at over £51m, with Arsenal now showing interest.

Franca to Arsenal

However, the Gunners will have to battle several clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Barcelona, Manchester City and Real Madrid, for the six-cap Brazil international next summer, according to the journalist.

Arsenal currently have Ben White and Jurriën Timber as their right-back options, while Cristhian Mosquera has also delivered solid performances whenever deployed there.

He most recently starred in the second half of the Gunners’ 1-0 win over a resolute West Ham United side, extending their lead at the top of the table to five points.

So far this campaign, Timber has been Arteta’s preferred choice before his injury, and he’s expected to reclaim a starting berth upon his return from injury.

This means White remains behind in the pecking order, and there is growing speculation that he could consider a summer departure in search of regular playing time.

Should he depart, Franca would be a viable option to replace the Englishman, as he possesses defensive solidity, an attacking threat and a profile that fits the manager’s style of play.