Arsenal have reportedly joined the transfer battle for promising Rennes midfielder Djaoui Cisse, according to French publication MediaFoot.
The north London side are among a host of clubs interested in signing the 22-year-old midfielder, who has impressed Mikel Arteta with his technical ability and playing style.
Bundesliga duo Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen are both believed to have expressed strong interest in Cisse previously and are gearing up for a potential summer pursuit.
A graduate of the Rennes academy, Cisse is under contract until the summer of 2030, having signed a fresh five-year deal last September.
Arsenal Keen on Djaoui Cisse
Djaoui Cisse
According to MediaFoot, Cisse’s breakout season is attracting attention in the European market, with Arsenal and Leeds among the clubs expressing interest in the midfielder.
The France U21 international has made 22 appearances for Rennes this term, including 12 starts in Ligue 1, and has drawn widespread praise for his elegance and work rate.
His former Rennes teammate, Lorenz Assignon, who moved to Stuttgart last summer, told Ligue 1’s website:
“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.”
Arsenal Could Revisit January Plan
Mikel Merino celebrates scoring his first goal
Arsenal looked into signing a new midfielder in January following an injury to Mikel Merino, and could revisit the plan after the season amid the Spain international’s lengthy absence.
Merino underwent surgery in early February after suffering a fracture in his right foot and is racing against the clock to feature again this season.
Following the 29-year-old’s setback, Arsenal considered a surprise move for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali in the final days of the winter market, and have been continuously linked with the Italian since.
Why Cisse’s Arrival Makes Perfect Sense
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta
Amid Arsenal’s reported interest in Cisse, we asked ChatGPT to assess why the 22-year-old could be exactly what the Gunners need in midfield.
High-upside midfield talent – Cisse is seen as a young, developing midfielder with strong technical ability and potential to grow into a top-level player, which fits Arsenal’s recruitment model.
Ball progression and technical profile – He is valued for his ability to receive under pressure, carry the ball forward, and link play through midfield, aligning with Arsenal’s possession-based style.
Tactical versatility – Cisse can operate in multiple midfield roles, giving squad depth and flexibility for different game states and competitions.
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