Arsenal eyeing move for French star, Mikel Arteta likes him

Arsenal are expected to be busy in the final weeks of the transfer window, with the club still looking to sign a centre-back and a left winger.

Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa has emerged as a centre-back target, but the Gunners could be priced out of a move for the England international.

The north London club have also been credited with an interest in Como’s Jacobo Ramon, but have yet to make a formal approach.

Sport now report that Arsenal are monitoring the situation of Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.

Manager Mikel Arteta reportedly admires Kounde’s versatility, with the France international able to play at centre-back and right-back.

Barcelona are open to selling the former Sevilla star. The Spanish champions are looking to raise funds to strengthen their squad.

Kounde has just resumed pre-season training following his involvement with France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will discuss his future with manager Hansi Flick.

Arsenal are ready to accelerate their interest if the 27-year-old opens the door to a move. Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are also interested in him.

Kounde joined Barcelona as a centre-back and has since established himself as one of the most reliable right-backs in La Liga.

The Bordeaux academy graduate possesses excellent recovery pace, is strong in duels and is comfortable defending high up the pitch.

Kounde averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per league game last season. He also averaged 59 accurate passes per game, the fourth-highest figure among Barcelona players.

He does not possess the height associated with a modern centre-back, but makes up for it with his pace, positioning, aggression and timing.

Kounde’s experience, versatility and quality make him an excellent fit for Arsenal as they seek to fill the void left by William Saliba’s back injury.

Stats from Sofascore

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