Arsenal ready to spend large on Jules Kounde

In keeping with Spanish publication Sport, Arsenal are ‘prepared to pay’ a hefty switch charge to signal Barcelona defender Jules Kounde this summer time.

The Gunners are within the switch marketplace for a brand new defender, who can function in central defence or at right-back. Arsenal primarily need to present cowl for the injured William Saliba at centre-back, however they’re likewise on the lookout for a right-back answer, given Jurrien Timber has but to return from a nagging groin downside.

Sport now reveal that Kounde has been recognized as a number one goal for the Gunners, contemplating he can function in each defensive roles. The Gunners are ready to spend large on the Frenchman, however they received’t make an method until the previous Sevilla man is prepared to pursue a brand new problem away from Barcelona.

As issues stand, Kounde is prioritising a stick with the Spanish champions. His present contract solely expires in June 2030. Barcelona are open to cashing in on the 27-year-old and it stays to be seen whether or not the Frenchman adjustments his stance within the coming days.

Expertise

The Gunners have an enormous void to fill within the coronary heart of their backline after the premature again damage sustained by Saliba whereas enjoying for France on the World Cup this summer time. Cristhian Mosquera is more likely to accompany Gabriel Magalhaes in central defence for the brand new marketing campaign, however the Spaniard stays inexperienced and has not had one of the best of pre-seasons.

Ben White and 16-year-old Marli Salmon are the one match proper footed centre-backs within the squad. With White poised to begin as a right-back, Arsenal genuinely want one other skilled determine to compete with Mosquera. Kounde can be an ideal candidate, having established himself as one of many main defenders in La Liga in addition to France.

Kounde began his profession as a specialist central defender, however has performed as a right-back lately. Final season, he had a passing accuracy of 92% in La Liga, profitable 4 duels and virtually 2 tackles per recreation. He’s not the tallest of defenders at 180cm, however he makes up for it together with his intelligent positioning and good restoration tempo. He can be a very good acquisition.

For the time being, he has no need to pursue a brand new problem, however his stance may change. He’s poised to carry talks with supervisor Hansi Flick and the dearth of assurances of normal recreation time may see him transfer on. Arsenal have held a long-term curiosity in him from his Sevilla days and will pounce on his providers if he offers the inexperienced mild for a switch.