By OkayGoal 
Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are locked in a North London rivalry that extends beyond the pitch, with both clubs reportedly chasing AS Roma right-back Wesley Franca ahead of next summer’s transfer window, according to Ekrem Konur.
Who Is Wesley Franca?
The 22-year-old Brazilian is one of the most exciting fullbacks in Europe right now. A product of Flamengo’s academy — the same conveyor belt that produced Vinicius Junior and Lucas Paqueta — Franca helped the club win both the Brasileiro U17s and Copa do Brasil U17s in 2021 before earning six senior caps under Carlo Ancelotti.
After turning heads at last summer’s Club World Cup, he made the move to Roma, and his performances for the Giallorossi have quickly attracted a host of elite suitors.
A Five-Club Race
Arsenal and Spurs aren’t the only ones watching. Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid have also entered the race, making this one of the most competitive pursuits of the summer window. Roma hold the cards, though, with Franca under contract until 2030 and a £51m price tag firmly in place.
The Verdict
Franca’s numbers speak for themselves — 63 touches in the opposition box, 1,779 total touches, and 33 chances created — making him an ideal fit for Roberto De Zerbi’s attack-minded Brighton side. That said, his relentless energy and technical ability could also complement Arteta’s structured system at the Emirates.
With Real Madrid lurking, Arsenal and Spurs must act decisively. At £51m, Franca looks like exceptional value.