Arsenal Target Roma Star Wesley Franca as Significant Right Back Upgrade Amid Potential Ben White Sale

Arsenal show significant interest in Roma's Wesley Franca. The Brazilian wing-back is viewed as an upgrade over Ben White as the Gunners eye the 2026 title.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 21, 2026, 2:33 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

Strategic Evolution of the Gunners Defensive Unit

Under the leadership of Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal squad has undergone a comprehensive transformation from top four contenders to genuine Premier League title favorites. As the team approaches the final stretch of the 2026 campaign at the top of the table, the recruitment department is already looking toward further refinements. Ben White, who has been a mainstay since the early stages of the Arteta era, has seen his starting opportunities diminish this season, beginning only five Premier League matches. This shift in status has reportedly led the club to consider a summer sale to fund a more dynamic replacement.

Brazilian Target Offers Superior Offensive Output

Wesley Franca has emerged as the most compelling candidate to fill the potential void on the right flank, drawing significant interest from Arsenal’s scouting network. The Brazilian has impressed in Serie A with four goals this season, a tally that currently exceeds the output of Jurrien Timber. While Timber showcased early season promise with a brace against Leeds, his scoring has since cooled, leaving a tactical opening for a defender with higher goal involvement. Franca’s athleticism and attacking maturity are viewed as ideal traits for a team that prioritizes high-pressing and overlapping play.

Versatility and Multi-Position Coverage at the Emirates

A key driver behind the pursuit of Franca is his ability to operate across multiple defensive and midfield roles. Primarily utilized as a wing back for Roma, the 22 year old is equally comfortable on the left or right side and can be deployed in a more advanced attacking position if required. This adaptability aligns perfectly with Arteta’s preference for a "fluid" defensive corps, where players like Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie are expected to rotate seamlessly between central and wide positions during a match.