Arsenal have entered the race to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers’ attacking midfielder Mateus Mané next summer, according to Sports Boom.
After a series of substitute appearances, Mané was handed his first start on December 27, 2025, in a 2–1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, and he has since established himself as a regular.
Having not featured earlier in the campaign under former head coach Vítor Pereira, his situation changed significantly following the arrival of Rob Edwards. Since then, he has registered two goals and two assists, delivering standout performances against top opposition — including Arsenal, particularly in the 2–2 draw in February.
With Wolves’ relegation now confirmed, several top clubs are preparing to move for their key players, and Mané is expected to be at the centre of a transfer battle in the summer window.
Now, according to Sports Boom, Mané is unwilling to play in the Championship next season and has expressed his desire to depart, drawing interest from clubs including Arsenal.
Arteta admires Mané
The report adds that the Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta is a keen admirer of the 18-year-old’s versatility to play in multiple positions, with a summer swoop now on the cards.
It appears Arsenal are already making moves to secure his transfer, as Sports Boom reports that the North London club have been impressed by Mané’s professionalism, having watched him closely in every match over the last three months.
In a boost to the Premier League leaders, the attacking midfielder’s determination to depart the club could drive his price low to £30m from the initial £50m the club placed on him, according to the report.
However, Arsenal will need to act swiftly to sign Mané, as the report claims that Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool are firmly in the race for the Portugal U21 international.
Despite being only 18, Mané has shown maturity beyond his years in his displays for Wolves this season, standing out in big games despite the club’s poor results.
Shouldering such responsibilities of becoming the club’s best player at 18 shows he has not just the quality but also the mentality to shine in a big club like Arsenal, reminiscent of the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Jack Wilshere, Tony Adams and even Bukayo Saka, who all featured for the club at 18 before going on to make an indelible impact at the club.