Mikel Arteta pushing Arsenal to sign Enzo Le Fee this summer

Mikel Arteta reportedly wants Arsenal to sign 26-year-old French midfielder Enzo Le Fee from Sunderland in the summer transfer window.

According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Sunderland midfielder Enzo Le Fee is the subject of interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder ahead of the 2026/27 season, and they have set their sights on the 26-year-old.

Mikel Arteta is the driving force behind Arsenal’s move for the Frenchman, as he appreciates the player’s “technical profile and intelligence in ball circulation” amid his exploits for Sunderland. So, the Arsenal head coach has identified Le Fee as a priority target for the summer.

Enzo Le Fee and his time in England so far

Enzo Le Fee has established himself as one of the most reliable midfielders in the Premier League since joining Sunderland from AS Roma. Born in Lorient, the 26-year-old spent his formative years in France and graduated from the youth division at FC Lorient. However, he had to bide his time after frustrating stints with Stade Rennais and AS Roma before landing on his feet at the Stadium of Light.

Le Fee initially joined Sunderland on loan in January 2025 before completing a permanent move for €23 million in the subsequent summer transfer window. The French midfielder has been productive for the Wearside outfit this season, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 33 outings thus far and playing his part in the team’s dream for European qualification. Meanwhile, his progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, including Arsenal.

Will Arsenal pursue a summer deal?

Arsenal’s interest in Enzo Le Fee is understandable. While Mikel Arteta has a stacked midfield unit, he needs more quality in the middle of the park, as Martin Odegaard has not been at his best in recent seasons. Additionally, recent reports have linked the Arsenal captain with a summer move away from the North London club.

Meanwhile, Eberechi Eze has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Arsenal from Crystal Palace nearly a year ago. So, Arteta wants the Premier League table-toppers to bolster his creative options, with Le Fee emerging as a viable target.

The 26-year-old Frenchman’s versatility will add to his appeal apart from his technical prowess. So, Le Fee can reprise multiple roles if he joins Arsenal, a quality Arteta appreciates in his players. However, the report has suggested that Sunderland “will not make his departure easy” this summer, and it will not be surprising if they look to more than double their €23 million investment in him.