Arsenal are contemplating an approach to sign Jules Kounde from Barcelona to ease the club’s defensive concerns.
With William Saliba sidelined for an extended period and Jurrien Timber being eased back into action after injury, Arsenal want to sign a player who can play at centre-back and right-back, with Kounde fitting that profile.
The Premier League champions have discussed a deal for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, though Kounde has now emerged as an alternative, according to Spanish outlet SPORT.
Mikel Arteta is a ‘big admirer’ of the France international, though Kounde’s agent has denied that he held talks with Barcelona officials this week to discuss a potential move.
The 27-year-old renewed his contract until 2030 just a year ago, and remains committed to the La Liga champions. Arsenal are not alone in expressing interest in Kounde, with Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich both linked of late.
After Wednesday’s draw with Como, Arsenal manager Mikel Areta outlined his desire for more signings.
“There is more that we want to do because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth to the squad, we need to do that,” Arteta said.
“We are actively trying to do so. The thing in the market is that it doesn’t just depend on you. We are very clear on that.
“But the approach, the will and the desire of the club, that’s unquestionable. We want to try to do that. But we cannot promise that we’re going to do it because it doesn’t only depend on us.”
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