Arsenal’s search for attacking reinforcements has led them to Bundesliga side Mainz, but they’re not alone in their pursuit of 20-year-old forward Nelson Weiper. According to French journalist Sebastien Vidal, both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring the highly-rated German striker this summer.
Weiper, valued at around €14 million by Mainz, is attracting Premier League attention following a promising breakthrough season in the Bundesliga. The North London rivals are among several clubs to have scouted the German youth international closely, with Brentford also in the mix.
Arsenal want depth behind Gyokeres deal
Mikel Arteta’s primary focus remains securing Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP, but Arsenal are planning ahead. The Gunners want a second, long-term centre-forward option to develop in the background, and Weiper fits the profile perfectly. He is powerful, technically sound, and already exposed to first-team football in Germany.
Despite only scoring three goals and adding two assists in 25 appearances for Mainz last season, Weiper’s work rate, off-the-ball movement, and link-up potential have caught the attention of Arsenal’s recruitment team. With Gabriel Jesus failing to hit consistent form and Kai Havertz excelling in deeper or rotating roles, the Gunners are keen to refresh their No. 9 options.
Spurs and Brentford also circling Weiper
Tottenham are also watching developments. New manager Thomas Frank is reportedly unsure about Dominic Solanke’s long-term suitability, and Weiper offers a different kind of profile. He is younger, more dynamic, and far cheaper than Spurs’ other shortlisted names. Brentford, still planning for a possible no-Mbeumo and no-Wissa future, have also explored a move.
Arsenal, though, may have a unique edge. Their project for young players, combined with Champions League football and an improving pathway to the first team, makes them an attractive destination for talents across Europe. The question will be whether they act quickly enough before the competition intensifies.
Author Opinion
At just €14m, Nelson Weiper could be a smart, low-risk signing with long-term upside. Arsenal have bigger deals on the table this window, but keeping one eye on the next generation of forwards is smart business, especially with Tottenham sniffing around the same target. Whether Weiper becomes Gyökeres’ understudy or just a player to develop in the background, he’s a name worth tracking as the summer window heats up.
