6 goals, 3 assists: Arsenal intensify interest in 18yo winger

Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Hammarby’s rising star Bazoumana Touré, with the teenage winger emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents in European football.

The 18-year-old Ivorian has caught the attention of multiple Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Brighton, and Wolves, following a series of standout performances in Sweden’s Allsvenskan since his move from ASEC Mimosas in March.

Touré, primarily a left winger but equally capable on the right or in left midfield, has been a revelation in Sweden, racking up six goals and three assists in just 16 league appearances.

Arsenal scouts were present during Hammarby’s recent clash against Hacken, where the winger delivered yet another impressive display, providing an assist in his side’s 2-0 victory. Touré’s versatility, blistering pace, and attacking flair have made him a key figure for Hammarby, and his performances have triggered intense interest from clubs across Europe.

Hammarby’s sporting director Mikael Hjelmberg has acknowledged the mounting interest, suggesting that a transfer could be on the horizon, stating, “There are a lot of clubs coming to the match against Hacken. We need to plan for a future without him. Then if it happens this winter, next summer or even further than that – I don’t think so, we’ll see. But the longer we get to keep him the better.” These comments underscore the reality that Hammarby could face an uphill battle to retain their prized asset in face of the money that seems likely to be thrown at the player.

Arsenal’s interest comes amid competition from several clubs, with Manchester United, Brighton, and Wolves reportedly having sent scouts to monitor Touré’s progress. Beyond England, clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Benfica have also been keeping close tabs on the young talent. Celtic have shown a “serious interest,” and their chief scout, Joe Lefevre, has already watched Touré in action, describing him as “something special.”

Touré’s agent, Unique Sports Group, represents several high-profile players who have also been linked to Arsenal, such as Anthony Gordon and Marc Guehi. Arsenal, known for nurturing young talent, may view Touré as a promising long-term investment, especially given the club’s tradition of developing young wingers.

Hammarby are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for Touré, with reports suggesting a potential fee of £8.5 million – a figure that would place him among the most expensive sales in Swedish football history. This would be a significant profit for the club, who signed him for approximately £370,000 earlier this year.

His current market value is estimated at €6.00m, and his contract with Hammarby runs until December 2028.