Arsenal are now hot on the trail of one of Europe’s brightest young talents, but they will face a lot of competition for his signature.
Stade Rennais midfielder Desire Doue has attracted plenty of attention after two outstanding campaigns in Ligue 1 as an 18-year-old.
In 31 league games this season, the teenager scored four and assisted five times, and his overall performances caught the eye across multiple positions.
Arsenal were recently credited with an interest in the wonderkid who out-dribbled Bukayo Saka this season, and an update has now emerged as it appears that initial talks have opened over a transfer, with it reported that a fee of just under £30m would be required to sign him.
Arsenal are among clubs interested in Rennes wonderkid Desire Doue
The likes of Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United are all said to be interested in Doue, but Arsenal could pull off a masterstroke if they landed him this summer.
Doue has featured across a range of positions this season, as a central midfielder, as well as on both wings, with the majority of his starts coming off the left.
Arsenal are interested in a winger to add speed and competition to the squad, but whilst Doue may not be an explosive attacker like mooted option Marcus Rashford, he could still end up being ideal for Arteta’s system.
Any concerns over his age can be justified by the fact he already has two years of experience under his belt, as well as by looking at the example of Eduardo Camavinga, who moved from Rennes to Real Madrid as a teenager and has since developed into one of the best midfielders in the world.
Arsenal can land their own Bernardo Silva in Rennes starlet Desire Doue
Arsenal are set to battle Manchester City for the title again next season, and Arteta may think about another one of his former colleagues for inspiration when it comes to building his own squad.
Man City star Bernardo Silva has been a key performer for them since arriving as a prodigal talent from Monaco, and he has performed superbly as a central midfielder and on both wings.
Doue could arrive as a similar profile to boost Arteta’s squad. He could play alongside Martin Odegaard as a number eight in midfield, or even provide cover for the captain. He could also slot on on the right as cover for Saka, and on the left as an alternative wing option.
His age means that Arsenal can afford to bed him in over time as a long-term signing rather than an immediate starter, and he has the fundamentals to succeed in this system.
Doue ranks highly among midfielders for goals, shot-creating actions and ball-carrying, whilst ranking highly among wingers for progressive passing and defensive work.
His teammate, fellow midfielder Baptiste Santamaria was effusive in his praise for the wonderkid, highlighting his incredible technical ability.
“He’s a very talented player with a great sense of football. But he’s still young. But he’s a player who aspires to go to the biggest clubs,” he told TNT Sports in April.
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“He’s one of a kind: he likes to hit the ball but he’s solid on his feet. Desire’s technical, percussive and physical qualities are quite incredible. When he becomes more consistent, he’ll be unplayable. For his age, he’s the most gifted youngster I’ve seen in my career.”
If Arsenal do sign him, over time Doue will likely become worth a lot more than his current asking price, and if he fulfils his vast potential, Arteta will have pulled off yet another transfer masterstroke.