Premier League heavyweights Chelsea are reportedly intensifying their efforts to beat Arsenal to the signature of Stade Rennais wonderkid Desire Doue.
According to a report by French outlet Le 10 Sport, Desire Doue is the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Stade Rennais wonderkid is also a target for the West London outfit’s fellow Premier League club, Arsenal. However, the Blues are stepping up their efforts to sign the 19-year-old, although he does not find Stamford Bridge an appealing destination.
Who is Desire Doue?
Desire Doue is the latest French sensation to rise in prominence in his homeland. A native of Angers, he is eligible to represent France and Ivory Coast on the international stage. Meanwhile, he spent his formative years with Stade Rennais, joining the Ligue 1 club as a six-year-old in 2011.
Since then, Doue has gone from strength to strength, establishing a foothold in the first-team squad in the last two years. The 19-year-old made his senior bow in August 2022 and has grown in stature in the two seasons that have followed. He amassed nearly 2,500 minutes of game time across 43 appearances in all competitions this season, chipping in with four goals and six assists.
Meanwhile, Doue’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. A move to the Premier League might be on the cards, with Arsenal and Chelsea vying for the young Frenchman’s signature heading into the summer transfer window.
London calling?
Arsenal’s interest in Desire Doue is understandable. Mikel Arteta appreciates versatility in his players, with Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Ben White, and others capable of reprising different roles. The Stade Rennais wonderkid has thus emerged as a viable target for Arsenal.
However, the Gunners face a tricky battle, with Chelsea ready to make more efforts to sign him. The Blues are stepping up their interest in the 19-year-old, pushing to secure his signature in the summer transfer window. However, Doue is not sold on the prospect of joining Chelsea.
The teenage sensation is assessing his options and will decide his next destination in the coming weeks. Arsenal might have the upper hand as they can offer UEFA Champions League football. So, it will be interesting to see what the future has in store for the 19-year-old Frenchman.
