AJ Auxerre were approached by Arsenal for their gem, Elyes Saidi, but repelled the Gunners' offensive.
Elyes Saidi is a great prospect from Auxerre's training centre and Moroccan football. He notably participated in the Under-17 World Cup with the Atlas Cubs, who have just been eliminated by Brazil in the quarter-finals (1-2). The 16-year-old midfielder participated in five encounters in this competition, starting in the three final-phase matches.
Auxerre repel Arsenal offer for Elyes Saidi
He notably distinguished himself through his passing quality during this competition by providing three assists against New Caledonia (16-0). Capable of playing both as a defensive midfielder or number 10, the young Moroccan is a versatile player.
His performances and potential have not gone unnoticed and Auxerre were recently approached. Indeed, according to information from Africa Foot, AJA received an offer from Arsenal for Elyes Saidi. The amount of the latter has not been disclosed, but it was repelled by the French side.
Arsenal wanted to sign him for their reserve team
“The Burgundy club consider the midfielder as one of their most promising prospects, capable of joining the first team in the short or medium term,” indicates the outlet specialising in African football. The 16-year-old player has already been alternating since the start of the season between the Under-19s – five matches played – and the Auxerre reserve – one encounter played as a starter – in National 3.
Elyes Saidi, who came through OM and Toulon's training centres, joined Auxerre in summer 2023 as a free transfer. AJA wish to keep him as long as possible and integrate him into their first team in the future. For their part, according to the same source, Arsenal wanted to sign the 16-year-old midfielder for their reserve team.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
