Arsenal have been presented with a potential opportunity to sign Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Hugo Larsson at a reduced price following his omission from Sweden’s World Cup squad. The 21-year-old, once considered a key prospect for the national team, has not featured for Sweden since September due to a combination of fitness issues and a dip in form.
Despite previous appearances in recent squads, Sweden manager Graham Potter chose not to include Larsson in his final World Cup roster, a decision described as “inexplicable” by Frankfurt director Markus Krosche, who highlighted Larsson’s consistent performance and importance to the club. A source close to the player revealed to Fotbollskanalen that Larsson was “completely devastated” by the news.
This setback, coupled with a generally underwhelming season for both Larsson and Frankfurt, is expected to impact his transfer value. Currently estimated at €22.8 million, Larsson’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) could fall as he misses the chance to showcase his abilities on a global stage. Frankfurt had previously been reported to potentially seek a fee as high as €60 million, but that figure now appears unlikely.
Frankfurt have endured a turbulent season, sacking manager Dino Toppmoller in January and replacing him with Albert Riera, a move that has yet to yield positive results. Riera is widely expected to be dismissed at the end of the season, having struggled to establish a positive relationship with the squad. These internal issues have undoubtedly affected Larsson’s performance, alongside recurring minor injuries and illnesses.
While Larsson has not performed at his peak, analytics firm SciSports still believes he possesses significant potential. Their analysis suggests he could eventually reach a level comparable to Arsenal’s Declan Rice, though acknowledging he is not yet as well-rounded. Arsenal have been monitoring Larsson’s development since January 2025, and this summer could present a favorable opportunity to secure his services.
Although the Gunners now have Myles Lewis-Skelly emerging as a promising midfielder, Larsson’s potential still makes him an attractive prospect. His ability to operate as a box-to-box midfielder, particularly when paired with a more defensively focused player, could add depth and quality to Arsenal’s midfield options.
