While Arsenal prepare for what promises to be a pivotal summer transfer window, their approach remains one of twin ambition: short-term trophies and long-term team building. The latest rumoured name on **the Gunners**‘ Wishlist is bright Argentine centre-back Juan Giménez, with the club earmarking the Rosario Central defender as one of their long-term recruitment targets.
Arsenal, still in contention for a good Premier League finish, are building for the future while setting up to reinforce the first team. 19-year-old Juan Giménez is one of South America’s most promising defensive talents. His regular appearances for Argentina’s top division have not only earned him a place in Rosario Central’s first team but also an understudy role with the Argentina Under-20 national side.
Giménez’s addition to Arsenal’s scouting list marks an obvious strategy to incorporate youth and flexibility to their backline, a central aspect of Arsenal’s long-term recruitment strategy under sporting director Andrea Berta.
🚨 Arsenal are monitoring Rosario Central centre-back Juan Gimenez (19) & Real Madrid Castilla centre-back Victor Valdepeñas (18) & have added both players to their shortlist. They are seen as potential targets for the future. [@Plettigoal] pic.twitter.com/cNeKrBSoZn
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) May 14, 2025
Juan Giménez Shines in Rosario Central Colours
Giménez has impressed with his mature performances far beyond his age. A central defender who is naturally right-footed, he has the technical capability too to play at defensive midfield and brings tactical versatility that contemporary teams crave. His calmness in possession and clever positioning are perfect for Mikel Arteta’s high possession, pressing style of play.
The defender’s current deal expires in December 2025, and some of Europe’s top clubs are tracking his circumstances with a view to prying him away this summer before his value automatically increases. Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund are reportedly leading the pursuit at present, but Arsenal are still very keen, as are a number of other major European sides.
🚨🆕 Arsenal have added Juan #Gimenez (19, Rosario Central) and Victor #Valdepenas (18, Real Madrid Castilla) to their shortlist. Both players are being monitored.
They are seen as potential transfer targets for the future.
Gimenez is also on the radar of Borussia Dortmund –… pic.twitter.com/agHcjYcoLj
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 14, 2025
Giménez’s contract status makes the transfer saga even more pressing. Having under 18 months remaining on his contract, Rosario Central can be tempted by bids which cover their asking price, particularly if it means letting one of their brightest stars move to a club with a known development system.
Arsenal Long-Term Recruitment Strategy Takes Shape
While Arsenal’s top priority this summer is securing a centre-forward of the top class, the club scouts are still finding youth targets who fit the playing identity of the team. The Gunners are also said to have Víctor Valdepeñas, a defender at Real Madrid Castilla, under their watch, with the indication of the broad net being cast as part of the long-term recruitment plan at Arsenal.
In recent years, the North London side has established a solid record for developing young players. The emergence of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and William Saliba highlights the benefits of making early investments in youth talent and incorporating them progressively into the top team.
Under Arteta, Arsenal have adopted a culture of development and performance going hand in hand. That culture, coupled with frequent European football and supportive infrastructure, makes the Emirates an inviting prospect for young players such as Giménez.
End-of-Season Focus Prior to Transfer Push
Before fully turning their attention to the transfer market, Arsenal have two vital Premier League games remaining, beginning with a home clash against Newcastle United. A win would cement their hold on second place and keep confidence high heading into a crucial summer.
No matter what the eventual outcome of the season, future planning is at the heart of the club’s policy. With Andrea Berta in charge of recruitment and Arteta providing a clear route for development, Arsenal are establishing a framework that can combine top-class signings with potential stars—such as Giménez—who might one day be the bedrock of the defense.
The battle for Giménez won’t be easy, with tough competition on the cards. Yet, the Gunners’ vision and the obvious route to first-team football may tip the scales in their favor during negotiations. It’s just another indication that the Gunners are not merely pursuing trophies—yet creating a long-term footballing model for success.
What do you make of Arsenal’s pursuit of young stars such as Giménez? Let us know in the comments below!
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