Arsenal’s search for right-back depth has taken on extra intrigue after emerging reports linked Ben White with a possible summer exit. White has started only five league matches this season, with Jurriën Timber now firmly established, and recent reports have named several younger right-backs Arsenal are tracking as potential replacements. This article will take you through four possible solutions.
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Tino Livramento
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Livramento looks the most Premier League-ready option. The Newcastle defender, born on 12 November 2002, is 23 and already has top-flight experience, athleticism and the recovery speed Arsenal demand from their full-backs. There have been a series of strong reports linking Arsenal with him if White leaves. He would be an expensive deal, but he feels like the safest option because he already knows the division and has the physical tools to play both as a traditional right-back and in a more tucked-in role. His injury history is the challenging aspects, missing over 30 games for club and country this season. It’s that aspect for me that would push him down my list – we don’t want another Riccardo Calafiori, or even Kieran Tierney situation – where the talent is unquestionable but lack of availability causes issues.
2. Alex Jimenez
Jiménez is another name to watch closely. The 20-year-old Spaniard completed a permanent move to Bournemouth in 2026 after initially joining on loan from AC Milan. That alone shows how highly Bournemouth rate him. Arsenal have been linked with him and he follows the Livramento mould of young, but Premier League established. He stands out as a more technical, developmental option with clear upside. He may not yet be the finished article, but he fits the profile of a modern Arteta full-back who can grow quickly in possession-heavy systems.
3. Wesley Franca
Wesley França arguably brings the most excitement. Roma confirmed his signing from Flamengo in July 2025, and Arsenal’s interest has been described by recent reports as significant, with ESPN also naming him among the Gunners’ right-back targets. The Brazilian is another youthful option (22) and already has a big-club feel to him: quick, aggressive and front-footed. Unlike Livramento and Jimenez, he’s not Premier League proven, but with that, he’s likely to come at a cheaper cost. He’s a very attacking option, capable of playing as a right winger and therefore offering a good contrast to Timber, who is more defensive by instinct.
4. Marco Palestra
Palestra is perhaps the most intriguing wildcard. The Italian right-back, born on 3 March 2005, turned 21 last month and is currently with Cagliari on loan from Atalanta. Reports have said Arsenal had earmarked him as a possible Ben White replacement, and his profile suggests why: he is young, tactically flexible and seen as one of Italy’s more promising defensive prospects. He would be more of a strategic signing than an instant starter, but Arsenal have often liked that kind of upside. After a successful loan, Atalanta are unlikely to want to let Palestra leave, but money talks and if Arsenal stump up the cash they will likely get their man, as seen in the case of Calafiori. Andrea Berta will have his contacts in Italy.
Of the four, Livramento feels the most immediate fit, Wesley the most explosive, Jiménez the most technical long-term bet and Palestra the most under-the-radar gamble with the biggest upside. Based on the latest reports, those are the four right-backs Arsenal fans should be watching most closely right now.
