Arsenal came up to sign a big star compared to Marc Guehi. The London club Arsenal is at the top of the Premier League and is looking to extend the depth of their squad. With the tight fixtures coming up, they need to extend their squad to keep up with the pace of the European nights. Having confirmed that he and technical executive Andrea Berta will pursue opportunities. Before the January window closes in two weeks, Arteta’s words perhaps give credence to a number of rumors currently floating about. It would be interesting to see how the club manages the situation.
Man City might have Guehi in their sights, but other teams are showing interest in the England star. With Arsenal pushing to seal his signature at the end of the campaign. People have urged Guehi, 25, to wait until his contract at Selhurst Park expires at the end of the season. As per Caught Offside, but City are relentless, and they are looking to seal his signature this month. For this season, it’s perhaps important to be pragmatic, but Berta may have actually found an even bigger talent to strengthen Arteta’s backline. According to transfer insider Graeme Bailey. Arsenal are “real contenders” in the race for Rennes center-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has attracted plenty of interest after a prodigious start to his career in France, with Chelsea also registering a vested interest. Jacquet has been labelled as the new Saliba by some. With a natural quality on the ball and leadership skills that suggest he could become a mainstay for Arsenal down the line. With that in mind, perhaps he could become an even bigger talent than Guehi. Who indeed captains Oliver Glasner’s side and has been hailed as “one of the league’s best defenders.”
Jérémy Jacquet is destined for a big club. That much is obvious. It's why he finished #6 in this year's SCOUTED50. But he also teaches us about how to evaluate different styles of defending based on role and responsibility. The spear and shield spectrum.
The Stade Rennais… pic.twitter.com/giSVYKPjBN
— SCOUTED (@scoutedftbl) January 16, 2026
Guehi is like a star’s future at Arsenal.
Arsenal have now identified Jacquet as a player for the future. Viewing him as someone capable of competing for a place in their squad over time. Despite already having a number of high-quality defenders at the club, the Gunners believe Jacquet has the talent and mentality to push himself into contention and grow within a demanding environment. The club’s recruitment strategy continues to focus on combining established quality with emerging talent. Arsenal are keen to ensure that their squad remains competitive across all competitions, both now and in the years ahead. Jacquet fits that profile as a defender who is already performing consistently while still having significant room for development. Mikel Arteta currently oversees a defensive group that many consider one of the strongest in the game. However, he has shown little interest in standing still. The Arsenal manager is determined to maintain high standards throughout his squad and understands the importance of constant improvement to stay ahead of rivals. By targeting players like Jacquet, Arsenal aims to create internal competition and protect the long-term strength of the team. The approach reflects a broader ambition to remain among the elite sides in Europe.
🇫🇷✨ Jérémy Jacquet (Rennes, 20)
◉ 86th percentile for aerial duels won %
◉ 82nd percentile for forward pass completion %
◉ 80th percentile for possessions won
No U21 player has more interceptions in the Top 5 Leagues (99) ⚔️
👉 https://t.co/4hmqyGwNNl pic.twitter.com/fBmkxWHDYG
— DataMB (@DataMB_) January 17, 2026
Fan’s reaction
The Arsenal fans are excited upon hearing the news of the club. With Calafiori’s injury going to linger a bit, it’s going to be important if they sign the young defender. The fans believe that the coach can manage the young defender and can develop him into their future star. Social media are buzzing over the news of the player’s potential arrival.
Author’s insight
From the author’s point of view, if this move happens, it would be best for both the player and the club. Hopefully Arteta and the management will be able to seal the deal.
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