Arsenal learn £50m+ price for 20yo midfielder

Froholdt has emerged as one of the key figures in Francesco Farioli’s side, making 50 appearances for Porto since joining from FC Copenhagen last July. He has played 3,961 minutes, behind only Diogo Costa and Bednarek in the Porto squad, while adding eight goals and six assists from midfield.

That form helped Porto win their 31st Portuguese title and has strengthened Froholdt’s reputation as one of the most closely watched young midfielders in Europe.

Arsenal were also linked with interest in late 2025, although any January move was complicated by the fact he had already represented two clubs this season, having played for FC Copenhagen in their opening Superliga fixture before moving to Portugal.

Any deal had to wait until the summer, but Porto are not planning to sell then, either.

Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images

The club’s hierarchy, led by André Villas-Boas, want to keep a core group together for 2026/27 as they look to defend their domestic title and return to the Champions League after two years away.

Froholdt is considered central to those plans, particularly because of how well he has fitted into Farioli’s system.

The player has also made clear that he is in no hurry to leave. “I would love to continue here next season and play in the Champions League for FC Porto. I already feel at home and I am very happy here,” said Froholdt, shortly after winning the title.

That stance gives Porto confidence, as does his contract. Froholdt signed until 30 June 2030 after joining from Copenhagen in a deal worth €20m, plus a further €2m in potential add-ons. His €85m clause means Porto are well protected, even if Premier League clubs decide to test their resolve.

Denmark’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup may also reduce the immediate risk of a major summer auction, with Froholdt denied the kind of international stage that could have accelerated interest.

Even so, Arsenal’s continued presence among the clubs tracking him underlines the level of attention his season has generated.