Arsenal’s midfield strength gives Mikel Arteta plenty of options, but a demanding season across domestic and European competitions leaves little room for complacency. Declan Rice provides energy and defensive cover, Martín Zubimendi offers control in possession, while Bruno Guimarães adds aggression and forward passing. Keeping that unit fresh will matter as the campaign progresses.

Arteta values midfielders who can press opponents, receive the ball under pressure and move it quickly through tight spaces. A player who can cover several roles would give Arsenal greater freedom to rotate without changing their approach, particularly during busy periods when injuries and fatigue can disrupt the manager’s plans.

That thinking could explain the reported interest in Brighton’s Yasin Ayari. According to Transfer Feed, the 23-year-old Sweden international has attracted attention from Arsenal, Manchester United, AC Milan and other European clubs. Brighton want to keep him and are reportedly pursuing a contract extension, with an existing option potentially strengthening their position in negotiations.

Ayari has developed into a technically capable central midfielder who can carry the ball into advanced areas and link play with quick, accurate passes. His ability to work in the half-spaces could appeal to Arteta, although Arsenal have yet to confirm any formal approach. No reliable transfer fee or weekly wage demand has emerged, so claims about the likely cost remain speculative.

Arsenal transfer news: Would Ayari provide Arsenal with a meaningful midfield upgrade?

The reported interest makes sense if Arsenal view Ayari as a rotation option rather than an immediate starter. His 2026/27 Premier League record stands at six appearances, 503 minutes, two goals and one assist, with an 85% passing accuracy. Those numbers suggest useful attacking contribution, although they offer only a small sample of his overall ability.

For Arsenal, the question concerns his role. Rice, Zubimendi and Guimarães already provide an accomplished midfield base, so Ayari would need to offer something distinct. His mobility and ability to connect midfield with attack could help against compact defences, while his pressing would suit Arteta’s demands out of possession.

In my view, Arsenal should pursue the Swede only if the recruitment team sees a clear route to regular minutes. Brighton have little reason to sell cheaply while they can extend his contract, and competition from Manchester United and AC Milan could complicate negotiations.

Ayari has encouraging qualities, but Arsenal must establish whether he can challenge their established midfielders or simply occupy a place in the rotation. A substantial fee would make that distinction especially important.