Arsenal are reportedly among several Premier League heavyweights keeping tabs on one of France’s brightest young defenders, as Mikel Arteta’s side continue to plan for the future while chasing present glory.
The Gunners may currently boast one of the strongest squads in England after a productive summer window, but their recruitment team isn’t standing still. Even with the season in full swing, Arsenal’s scouts have been busy across Europe, identifying emerging stars who could strengthen the team for years to come.
According to CaughtOffside, FC Nantes prodigy Tylel Tati has caught Arsenal’s attention, with the 17-year-old defender already turning heads across the continent.
“Arsenal are believed to be one several Premier League sides to have recently sent scouts to watch a versatile young defender in France,” the report stated, highlighting growing interest in the teenager.
Tati’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Born in 2008, the young Frenchman has already earned valuable senior minutes for Nantes, showcasing maturity and composure well beyond his years. It’s this early exposure to top-flight football that has put him firmly on the radar of Europe’s elite.
The report adds that Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United have all dispatched representatives to monitor his development closely. However, the Premier League giants aren’t alone, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, and Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be watching his progress with keen interest.
Despite the growing speculation, Nantes are determined not to rush the youngster’s next steps. “Despite the growing speculation, Nantes are taking a measured approach, focusing on the teenager’s development before considering serious offers,” the report explained. This suggests the French side are more focused on nurturing Tati’s potential than cashing in early.
What makes Tati particularly appealing to top clubs is his impressive versatility. “Tati has already shown impressive adaptability in his short time with the Nantes first team. While predominantly a central defender, he has also featured comfortably at left-back and in defensive midfield,” the report continued.
That level of flexibility at just 17 years old makes him a tactical dream for modern managers like Arteta, who values players capable of thriving in multiple roles.
His ability to read the game, stay composed under pressure, and switch between defensive positions with ease has drawn comparisons to some of France’s most promising defenders in recent years. Arsenal, with their focus on developing young talent and building a long-term project under Arteta, are understandably intrigued.
For now, Tati remains a Nantes player, steadily learning his trade in Ligue 1. But if his trajectory continues upward, it’s only a matter of time before Europe’s biggest clubs come knocking, and Arsenal could be first in line.
