REPORT: Arsenal offered chance to sign €40m Sporting CP defender as Saliba cover

Arsenal offered chance to sign Sporting CP defender Zeno Debast. — *Photo: Getty Images*

Arsenal have reportedly been offered the chance to sign Sporting CP defender Zeno Debast.

With William Saliba expected to be sidelined for several months due to a back injury, Arsenal are actively exploring the market for defensive reinforcements.

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Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and free agent John Stones are among the names under consideration at the Emirates.

However, recent reports have suggested Arsenal are reluctant to meet Aston Villa’s reported £60m asking price for Konsa.

Signing Stones, meanwhile, would represent a low-risk option given the former Manchester City defender is available on a free transfer.

Now, another name has emerged.

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Zeno Debast previously scouted by Arsenal

According to CaughtOffside, Sporting CP centre-back Zeno Debast has been offered to Arsenal through intermediaries.

The report claims Arsenal have been informed that the Belgium international could be available for around €40m this summer.

The Gunners have previously scouted the 22-year-old, although no formal talks have taken place and no final decision has been made.

However, Arsenal have not dismissed the opportunity, suggesting they are seriously considering a potential move for the Sporting defender.

Debast’s current contract with Sporting CP runs until the summer of 2029.

What happens next?

Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window now officially open, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.

The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.

The bigger picture

Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.

The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.

Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.

Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.

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