Arsenal have expressed an interest in signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as they continue to search for defensive reinforcements.
BBC Sport reports that discussions over the 23-year-old are currently at an exploratory stage, although a deal is considered possible. Arsenal have also been pursuing Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, with the two defenders emerging as options for Mikel Arteta.
Quansah’s versatility is understood to appeal to Arsenal, with the England international capable of playing at both centre-back and right-back. The Gunners are looking to strengthen their defensive depth following injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber.
Arsenal’s interest in Quansah comes as their negotiations over Konsa continue. Villa value their 28-year-old defender at around £60 million, while Arsenal are understood to value him closer to £40m. The Guardian reports that Arsenal have opened talks with Leverkusen and that the German club value Quansah at around €50m (£43m).
Arsenal explore move for Bayer Leverkusen defender Quansah
Quansah joined Leverkusen from Liverpool last summer and enjoyed an impressive first season in Germany, making 44 appearances and scoring five goals. He was also part of England’s World Cup squad and featured at right-back during the tournament.
Liverpool have a matching-rights provision linked to Quansah’s departure from Anfield, although BBC Sport reports that the club have no intention of exercising it.
Leverkusen are reportedly reluctant to sell the defender after only one season, meaning Arsenal would likely need to make a significant offer to persuade the Bundesliga club to do business.
For Arsenal, the immediate priority is to provide cover in defence while Saliba remains sidelined and Timber’s availability is uncertain. Whether Quansah becomes a genuine alternative to Konsa or simply strengthens Arsenal’s negotiating position remains to be seen.