Wonderkid race: PSG in pole position
PSG are leading the chase for 16-year-old midfield talent Aboubacar Maiga, beating out every major Premier League club and Barcelona for his signature (2). The club has accelerated efforts in recent weeks, and Maiga is currently spending time in France as PSG intensify their assessment. The project has made a strong impression on both the player and those around him, with growing confidence inside the club that they can seal the deal.
Arsenal circling academy defender Mbemba
Arsenal are pushing to sign PSG academy defender Emmanuel Mbemba, whose contract is expiring this summer (3). Le Parisien's Benjamin Quarez reports the Gunners have been active in their pursuit despite PSG offering Mbemba his first professional deal. The youth market matters now more than ever, and losing a homegrown talent to a direct European rival would sting.
Return date set: July 25
PSG players will report back on Saturday, July 25 for the start of preseason (4). Those involved in the 2026 World Cup will return later. Coming off back-to-back Champions League titles, Luis Enrique will want the group ready to chase a third straight European crown.
Fan reactions
Supporters are already looking ahead to the transfer window with ambition. One popular thread calls for selling Dembele and Barcola to fund a move for Michael Olise and "secure a multiyear dynasty" after the Champions League win. Meanwhile, the Mbemba links to Arsenal have sharpened attention on the club's ability to retain academy talent against Premier League interest. Read more on r/psg