French outlet Foot Mercato claim Arsenal are battling Sevilla to sign Ligue 1 wonderkid Fares Chaibi ahead of the January window – after the Algeria youth international has made a wonderful start to his career with Toulouse.
Chaibi, 19, has thrown himself into Toulouse’s first team this season – having joined the club from Lyon’s academy in 2019. Playing in 13 of Toulouse’s 15 Ligue 1 appearances, he has been handed nine starts in France’s top tier.
Indeed, Algeria under-23 star Chaibi has had a hand in six goals during those 13 games – despite completing 90 minutes on just three occasions. He has scored twice himself, while laying on four assists for Toulouse, too.
Little surprise, then, that Chaibi is beginning to win himself admirers across Europe. The report claims Arsenal and Sevilla are interested in landing the playmaker, though it is unclear how much they would have to spend to sign him.
Arsenal are battling Sevilla to sign Chaibi, has made a wonderful start
What a talent Chaibi looks as if he could be. A real wonderkid. To have never played a minute of senior football before the start of the season, and then to come in as if he has been playing senior football all his life – is deeply impressive.
Is it too soon for a club like Arsenal or Sevilla? Without a doubt. But the Gunners would be foolish not to keep tabs on Chaibi. And, potentially, even secure a deal that sees the London club sign him – and then send him back on loan.
The Gunners do have options in attacking midfield. The likes of Martin Odegaard, who is one of the first names on the team sheet, and summer signing Fabio Vieira. Chaibi has a deal until June 2025, but a move to Arsenal is on the cards.
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