Arsenal battle Chelsea and Barcelona for €60m-rated Diouf

Arsenal have moved to sign Inter Milan midfielder Andy Diouf as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad ahead of the forthcoming transfer windows, but the Gunners must outbid Chelsea and Barcelona, who are also circling the French international, while Inter’s steep valuation could prove a stumbling block.

Arsenal's midfield needs

The Gunners are seeking a versatile midfielder who can add depth as they compete on several fronts. Diouf’s ability to drive forward, defend and create chances aligns with Arteta’s preferred style of quick transitions. His capacity to operate in multiple roles offers the tactical flexibility Arsenal crave.

The 23‑year‑old Frenchman has impressed with his physicality and adaptability during his spell in Italy. Consistent performances for Inter Milan have drawn the attention of a number of European heavyweights. His blend of energy and ball‑carrying skill makes him a compelling option for north‑London.

Arsenal’s recruitment team have been tracking Diouf for some time and view him as a long‑term addition to the midfield. They consider his forward runs and defensive contributions valuable for a squad that aims to sustain pressure across the Premier League and Europe.

Inter's price tag

Inter Milan signed Diouf from Lens in August 2025 for a fee reported at around €26m, including bonuses, and tied him to a contract until June 2030. The Serie A club now values the midfielder at €50m‑€60m and is unlikely to accept a reduced offer. This high valuation places Inter in a strong negotiating position.

Barcelona, Chelsea and Paris Saint‑Germain are also monitoring the midfielder, heightening the competition for his signature. Their interest adds pressure on Arsenal to present a compelling bid that matches Inter’s expectations.

Should Arsenal decide to meet the €50m‑€60m demand, the price could strain their summer budget despite the player fitting their recruitment strategy. Conversely, walking away may leave a gap in the Gunners’ midfield depth as they chase multiple trophies.

With several elite clubs keeping tabs, Diouf’s future is set to attract further scrutiny in the coming months. Arsenal will need to weigh the financial outlay against the potential long‑term benefit before the transfer window closes.