Arsenal set to rival Paris Saint-Germain in summer bidding war over Italian superstar target

According to reports, Arsenal and Aston Villa are both interested in signing Vitoria Guimaraes defender Ibrahima Bamba this summer.

It was reported last month that the players’ representatives were negotiating a January move to the Gunners, but nothing came of it.

Unai Emery appears to want to swoop in for Bamba, who has performed admirably in Portugal this season, while Arsenal may also be interested.

According to CalcioMercato, both clubs are keeping a close eye on Bamba and are seriously considering making offers, while Italian club Atalanta is also interested.

Also, as previously reported by Bookmakers Ratings, Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for Bamba, so they could make another bid for him.

Bamba has made 26 appearances for Guimaraes across all competitions this season, mostly as a centre-back but also as a defensive midfielder on occasion.

According to the report, Mikel Arteta admires the 20-year-versatility old’s and is eager to ‘line up’ a deal to secure his services for next season.

The Italian’s current contract with the Portuguese club expires in 2026, so there is no immediate pressure to sell him. With that in mind, Arsenal or Villa will have to put their money where their mouth is in order to complete a deal.

The enormous potential of Bamba represents an investment opportunity.
Bamba’s performances have already demonstrated the quality he possesses, despite the fact that he is still a youngster.

Bamba could provide defensive cover for Arsenal’s Gabriel and William Saliba, as well as Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, and Jorginho, all of whom are over the age of 30.

When Arteta first arrived at the Emirates, he focused on bringing in young players who could help the team in the long run, and bringing in Bamba could be a good investment.

Villa, on the other hand, may be in greater need of defensive reinforcements. Tyrone Mings has recently returned to Emery’s starting XI, while Diego Carlos and Ezra Konsa have also played prominent roles this season.

Bamba could also provide midfield cover for Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara if needed. Squad depth is critical to Premier League success, so Emery is clearly looking to address this issue.

Guimaraes are unlikely to let one of their key players leave easily, but Bamba’s contract reportedly includes a £26.5m release clause. If Arsenal and Villa meet that price, the player will be free to choose his next destination.

With Arsenal almost certain to play in the Champions League next season, that may be a bigger draw. Having said that, Bamba is likely to see increased playing time at Villa Park, so he must decide what his priorities are.