Arsenal eyeing Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet as transfer window closes

Arsenal have made an approach for Rennes centre-back Jérémy Jacquet, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, as the Premier League club prepares to finalize its squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Defensive Reinforcement on the Radar

While Arsenal have already completed the bulk of their transfer business, including the signings of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martín Zubimendi, manager Mikel Arteta has left the door open for further moves before the window closes.

“We’ll see,” Arteta said over the weekend. “The market is still open, and we’ll have to balance the squad as well. I think we’ll be open to seeing what happens.”

According to Romano, Jacquet, a highly-rated young defender, is being monitored as a potential addition but any deal may depend on player departures in the coming weeks.

Exits Expected as Squad Trim Becomes Priority

Arsenal’s focus has now shifted toward reducing squad size, with several fringe players linked with exits. Only after offloading will the Gunners potentially return to the market, and Jacquet is one of the main names on their shortlist.

The 20-year-old Frenchman has impressed at Rennes with his composure and physicality, attracting attention from multiple top European clubs.

Neville and Wright Back Arsenal for the Title

As Arsenal finalize preparations for the new campaign, former Premier League stars Gary Neville and Ian Wright are both predicting the Gunners will finally lift the Premier League trophy.

Neville, speaking on The Overlap US, said: “They’ve finished second the last two years. I have to back Arsenal again. I didn’t back them the first year I backed City but this time I’ll stick with Arsenal.”

Wright echoed the sentiment on the Seaman Says Podcast, stating: “I think they’ll win the Premier League next season because I want them to do it, and I think they’re getting closer. They were unlucky last season with injuries and some tough decisions.”