Arsenal are preparing for a crucial summer transfer window, and the left-back position is emerging as an area of focus. According to Caught Offside, the Gunners have maintained ‘long-standing interest’ in Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri, with Mikel Arteta keen to reinforce the squad. However, they face competition from AC Milan, who see Ait-Nouri as a potential replacement for Theo Hernandez.
With Kieran Tierney expected to return to Celtic on a permanent deal and doubts surrounding Oleksandr Zinchenko’s future, Arsenal could be in the market for a new left-back. The reported price tag for Ait-Nouri is around €60m (£50m), making him a significant investment for the club.
Despite Wolves’ struggles in the Premier League this season—they currently sit just above the relegation zone—Ait-Nouri has been one of their standout performers. The Algerian international has contributed four goals and five assists in 29 appearances, underlining his attacking prowess from full-back.
His ability to play both as a traditional left-back and as a more advanced wing-back makes him a versatile asset. Given Arteta’s preference for tactical flexibility, Ait-Nouri’s skill set could complement Arsenal’s existing defensive options, including the promising Miles Lewis-Skelly and Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori, who has been linked with a move to North London.
Arteta has favoured an inverted full-back system, with Zinchenko often stepping into midfield when in possession. Ait-Nouri possesses the technical quality to perform a similar role but offers a more natural balance between defence and attack.
His dribbling ability and willingness to drive forward could add another dimension to Arsenal’s left side. While Zinchenko has been criticised for defensive lapses, Ait-Nouri’s defensive contributions have been impressive, with Wolves relying on him in key moments this season.
Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit, with AC Milan also heavily linked with the 23-year-old. With Theo Hernandez reportedly on Manchester City and Real Madrid’s radar, Milan are considering Ait-Nouri as a replacement.
Italian football could be a tempting prospect for the Algerian, especially if he is guaranteed a starting role. However, Arsenal’s resurgence as a Premier League powerhouse and their consistent presence in the Champions League could give them an edge in negotiations.
From an Arsenal fan’s perspective, the potential signing of Rayan Ait-Nouri is an exciting prospect. While Zinchenko has been a valuable player, his defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed in key matches. If Arsenal want to compete with Manchester City and Liverpool for the Premier League title, they need a left-back who can offer more defensive solidity without sacrificing attacking threat.
Ait-Nouri ticks many boxes. He is young, technically gifted, and has experience in English football. While £50m is a steep price, it is not unreasonable in the current market—especially for a player with his potential. The competition from AC Milan is a concern, but Arsenal’s project under Arteta is proving to be one of the most attractive in Europe.
If Arteta and Edu can pull off this signing, it would strengthen Arsenal’s squad depth and provide healthy competition in defence. Whether Ait-Nouri would immediately displace Zinchenko remains to be seen, but having an alternative with his qualities could be a game-changer for the Gunners next season.
