Full Breakdown
Arsenal Eye Aaron Wan-Bissaka as Ben White Replacement
7/7/2026, 12:30:21 PM
Arsenal Target Aaron Wan-Bissaka as Ben White Replacement
Arsenal have added West Ham United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka to a shortlist of eleven candidates to replace injured centre-back Ben White. The Gunners’ scouting report cites Wan-Bissaka’s one-on-one defending and recent World Cup display for DR Congo as key attributes. No contract has been signed and the club is still conducting background checks.
Background & Context
Arsenal entered the 2026-27 season as Premier League champions and Champions League runners-up, generating additional revenue that underpins a £250 million transfer budget announced by sporting director Andrea Berta. Ben White’s knee-ligament injury in May has left a vacancy at right-back, prompting Arteta’s staff to explore multiple options.
Key Figures & Groups
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 28-year-old former Manchester United defender, relegated with West Ham to the Championship.
- Ben White – Arsenal’s injured centre-back, potential departure target.
- Mikel Arteta – Arsenal manager overseeing the rebuild.
- Andrea Berta – Sporting director allocating the £250 million budget.
- Jurrien Timber – Emerging right-back whose rise has reduced White’s minutes.
Data & Statistics
- Arsenal’s shortlist includes 11 right-backs: Wan-Bissaka, Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Livramento (Newcastle), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), Raúl Asencio (Real Madrid), Oscar Mingueza (Celta Vigo), Lutsharel Geertruida (RB Leipzig), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Roma), Ivan Fresneda (Sporting CP), and Givairo (Feyenoord).
- Wan-Bissaka featured in DR Congo’s run to the World Cup Round of 32, earning praise as “one of the strongest one-on-one defenders in England.”
- Arsenal’s transfer budget: £250 million; other clubs (Everton, Fenerbahçe) have also shown interest in Wan-Bissaka.
Why It Matters
Securing a reliable right-back is crucial for Arsenal’s defence, especially after White’s injury and Timber’s emergence. A successful acquisition would reinforce Arteta’s squad depth, helping the club defend its league title and pursue European glory.
Official Statements & Responses
Andrea Berta confirmed a £250 million budget earmarked for midfield, wing, and defensive reinforcements. Internal sources reported “significant internal discussion” about Wan-Bissaka and noted that the club is “carrying out detailed background work” before any offer is made.
Criticism & Opposition
Competing interest from Everton and Turkish side Fenerbahçe could drive up Wan-Bissaka’s price and limit Arsenal’s negotiating leverage. Some analysts argue that Arsenal’s focus on multiple positions may dilute resources needed for a premium right-back.
On-the-Ground Reports
Wan-Bissaka’s World Cup performances were highlighted for his defensive solidity and composure against top international attackers, reinforcing his reputation among scouts.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Wan-Bissaka’s willingness to leave West Ham; some describe him as “open to a move,” while others provide no confirmation. No official club statement has verified a formal bid or timeline.
Verbatim Quotes
- “READ: Arsenal won’t ‘go away’ in Newcastle star chase with Magpies in ‘difficult’ situation “I think there could be three, four signings for Arsenal, also based on exits, but there will be movement up front.” — Fabrizio Romano, Transfer Analyst
- “A striker is a possibility, in midfield and at right-back.” — Fabrizio Romano
- “Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been linked with a move to Arsenal.” — TEAMtalk
- “A move for former Manchester United defender Wan-Bissaka is ‘generating significant internal discussion’ at Arsenal with sources telling TEAMtalk that the DR Congo international is expected to become available this summer after West Ham;s relegation to the Championship.” — TEAMtalk
- “Arsenal have been searching for players since January already, that in January they didn’t find the right opportunity, and so they didn’t want to waste their money.” — Fabrizio Romano
What’s Next
Arsenal are expected to finalize their right-back shortlist in the coming weeks, with potential negotiations slated for early July. The outcome will hinge on West Ham’s willingness to sell, competing bids from Everton and Fenerbahçe, and the club’s ability to balance its £250 million budget across multiple priority areas.
