Report: Arsenal-linked ‘new Messi’ turns down new contract, current deal expires next year

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Arsenal have seemingly been handed a huge boost in the shape of reported target Kays Ruiz-Atil rejecting a new Paris Saint-Germain deal, according to Le Parisien.

The Gunners were linked with the 17-year-old in February, according to Foot Mercato, while Premier League rivals Chelsea were also said to be interested ahead of the summer window.

Ruiz-Atil is currently at Paris Saint-Germain, having made the switch from Barcelona’s La Masia academy in 2015, and has been impressive for the French capital side at youth level.

However, he is yet to make his senior debut for PSG, and is now reportedly open to leaving the Parc des Princes – a situation which seemingly piqued the interest of several big sides.

Le Parisien reports that Ruiz-Atil, who is set to become a free agent next summer, has turned down the opportunity to sign fresh terms until the summer of 2024.

This comes after Leonardo, PSG’s sporting director, refused to hand him the opportunity to train with Thomas Tuchel’s first-team squad, despite a personal request from the youngster.

“If PSG doesn’t want me to train with the pros, there are other clubs. It will not end at PSG,” Ruiz-Atil said on Instagram last month.

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Ruiz-Atil is an impressive young prospect – he’s not afraid to take opponents on, boasts great ball control and hold-up play, and has a keen eye for a pass – indeed, he’s picked defences apart many a time – amongst other essential traits.

Given Chelsea’s apparent strong interest in the player, amongst other clubs such as Borussia Dortmund and Juventus, it shows that Arsenal are one of just several top clubs interested in a player who is already being dubbed the ‘new Messi’ (Goal.com).

However, given PSG have history in losing talented youngsters after running down their contracts – Kingsley Coman, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Claudio Gomes and Boubakary Soumare to name a few – it’s certainly a case of “watch this space” for Mikel Arteta and co.