Arsenal Targets Wesley Franca as Athletic Upgrade Over Ben White to Bolster Defensive Versatility

Arsenal shows significant interest in Roma's Wesley Franca as an upgrade for Ben White. Discover how the Brazilian outscores Timber in this transfer update.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 22, 2026, 9:11 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The Search for a Dynamic Defensive Edge

Mikel Arteta is reportedly overseeing a significant evolution of his defensive line as Arsenal nears the conclusion of a potential title-winning campaign. While Ben White was a foundational piece in the early years of the Spaniard’s tenure, his influence has diminished this season, resulting in only five Premier League starts. According to industry insiders, the club is now prepared to sanction the sale of the Englishman to make room for a more athletic and attack-minded alternative. This strategic shift reflects a desire to inject more pace and goal-scoring threat into the wide defensive positions as the club prepares for sustained competition at the highest level of European football.

Emergence of a High Output Brazilian Prospect

Wesley Franca has emerged as the primary target in Arsenal’s search for a right-back upgrade, surpassing other candidates such as Tino Livramento and Vanderson on the club's shortlist. The 22-year-old Roma star has caught the attention of scouts at the Emirates due to his defensive maturity and impressive offensive contributions in Serie A. With four league goals to his name this season, Franca is currently outperforming Arsenal’s starting right-back, Jurrien Timber, in terms of direct goal output. His ability to impact the final third while maintaining defensive stability has made him one of the most sought-after young defenders in world football.

Outscoring the Incumbent Options at the Emirates

The comparison between Franca and Timber highlights a specific area where Arsenal believes they can improve. Although Timber started the season in sensational form with two goals against Leeds, his scoring rate has slowed, leaving him with a total of three Premier League goals. Franca’s superior numbers in Italy are particularly impressive given that he frequently alternates between right-back and wing-back roles. By bringing in a player with a proven track record of finding the net, Arteta aims to diversify Arsenal’s attacking avenues and provide more overlap support for his primary wingers.