Arsenal ‘consider move for Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana as an alternative to Declan Rice’

Arsenal have reportedly lined up Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana as a possible alternative if they fail to complete a deal for Declan Rice. 

The Gunners have had three bids rejected for the West Ham skipper, the last of which was for a fee of £75 million plus £15million in add-ons. 

However, the Hammers are holding out for a £100million fee for the player, and although Arsenal are preparing a further bid for Rice, they are targeting alternatives in case a deal can’t be done for the England man. 

Boss Mikel Arteta sees the midfield as a key area he wants to improve this summer and has identified Fofana as another option in the middle. 

According to French outlet L’Equipe (via GGFN), Arsenal have joined the race for the French midfielder but could face competition for his signature. 

The Gunners have already had three bids rejected by West Ham for the England midfielder 

Newcastle have been linked with a move for the 24-year-old, along with Serie A sides Inter and Roma, while West Ham have also been credited with an interest in Fofana as a potential replacement for when Rice departs. 

Reports suggest Fofana would be allowed to leave the French club, if a bid of around £30million is received. However,  so no offers have been made for the player. 

Defensive midfielder Fofana was a key member of Monaco’s side last season, making 47 appearances and scoring two goals. 

He has won 10 caps for France and was part of their 2022 World Cup squad, starting in the semi-final win over Morocco and playing 25 minutes in the final after coming off the bench. 

Arsenal’s interest comes with the news that Manchester City have entered the race for Declan Rice and could be about to rival the Gunners in securing his signature. 

City are looking to bolster their midfield following Ilkay Gundogan’s exit to to Barcelona, but will look for assurances from Rice that he wants to be part of Pep Guardiola’s project before they make a bid.  

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen to improve his midfield area ahead of next season