Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal move for France wonderkid

Arsenal have opened talks over the possible signing of young France star Jeremy Jacquet.

Fabrizio Romano reports that the Gunners have initiated contact with Rennes to declare their interest in the centre back.

The 20-year old is considered one of the hottest young defensive prospects in France and only recently signed a new deal at Rennes until 2029.

Romano says that Jacquet is on the list of potential signings should Arsenal sell a centre back this month.

🚨🔴⚪️ Understand Arsenal have made initial contact to show interest in French 19 year old centre back Jérémy Jacquet.

Arsenal like Jacquet who recently signed new deal at Rennes until June 2029.

He’s on the list as option in case of exits this month… or eventually for 2026. pic.twitter.com/zaJHaxJdsR

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 3, 2025

Jacquet to join Arsenal?

Romano says that there is a chance Jakub Kiwior could leave Arsenal before the end of the summer window.

Mikel Arteta is a big fan of the player and would like to keep him but there is a possibility Kiwior will leave in search of first-team football.

Despite the presence of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori, Arteta wants another centre back to supplement this group.

That is where Jacquet or another centre back fits in if Kiwior or another centre back leaves this month.

Should Kiwior stay, Arsenal could still look to sign Jacquet in 2026 as they see the player as a long-term prospect.

Jacquet has made 12 senior appearances for Rennes and last season spent the year on loan at Ligue 2 side Clermont, making 23 appearances and scoring two goals.

He has been a regular through the France national youth teams and has made two appearances for the Under-21 side.

In 2014 he finished runner-up at the Under-19 Euros, being named in the Team of the Tournament.

Arsenal have been very active in the summer transfer window, signing a host of top players such as Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Mosquera, Cristhian Morgaard and Kepa for over €200 million.