Arsenal and Chelsea have both made enquiries about Boca Juniors attacking midfielder Tomas Aranda, according to El Intransigente, though neither club has yet made a formal approach for the 19-year-old.

Release Clause Complicates Boca’s Plans

Boca are keen to keep hold of Aranda, but his contract contains a $20 million release clause, which rises to $25 million if triggered before the start of their next season. Should either English side activate it, the Argentine club would be powerless to block a move.

Chelsea’s Strasbourg Plan

The Blues reportedly view Aranda as a long-term investment and are considering sending him on loan to sister club Strasbourg for development. Although Chelsea already have plenty of attacking options, his versatility makes him an appealing project.

Why Arsenal Are Interested

Aranda mainly plays as an attacking midfielder but can operate on the left flank. That flexibility suits Arsenal, who are looking to add depth in wide areas. The Gunners also see him as a potential long-term successor to captain Martin Odegaard.

Aranda’s Rapid Rise

Aranda made his senior Boca debut in January 2026 and has since made 32 appearances, scoring once and setting up three goals. Lionel Messi has publicly praised him, and he earned his first Argentina cap in June, coming off the bench in a 2-0 friendly win over Honduras.

Our Take

At that price, Aranda looks like decent value for a player with international experience already. Arsenal’s need for cover on the left and a future Odegaard heir makes them the more natural fit, while Chelsea’s loan route feels more like a speculative punt.