Arsenal join the transfer race to sign Rennes midfielder Djaoui Cisse
Arsenal have joined the race to sign highly-rated Rennes midfielder Djaoui Cisse as manager Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Premier League side are reportedly competing with Leeds United alongside Bundesliga duo Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen for the 22-year-old’s signature.
Cisse has enjoyed a standout breakthrough campaign in France, establishing himself as a key figure in the middle of the park.
The France Under-21 international has made 22 appearances across all competitions this term, including 12 starts in Ligue 1.
Arteta seeks midfield reinforcements
The Gunners’ interest follows a significant setback in their midfield department after Mikel Merino suffered a fractured right foot.
The Spain international underwent surgery in early February and now faces a race against time to feature again before the season concludes.
As a result, the north London club briefly considered a late January move for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali before shifting their focus to long-term summer targets.
The impressive technical profile of the young playmaker aligns perfectly with the possession-based system deployed at Emirates Stadium.
He is highly valued for his tactical versatility and his ability to progress the ball while operating under intense pressure.
Rising star locked into long-term deal
Securing the talented ball-carrier will require a substantial fee, as he recently committed his long-term future to his current employers.
An academy graduate of the French side, the dynamic midfielder signed a fresh five-year contract last September that runs until the summer of 2030.
His rapid development has earned widespread praise from former colleagues who have witnessed his steady progression through the youth ranks.
Lorenz Assignon, a former teammate who departed for Stuttgart last summer, recently highlighted the youngster’s exceptional work ethic.
“You always see Rennes producing top young players. It just takes the right moment and the right coach. Djaoui has been working relentlessly, and now he’s reaping the rewards.”
