Arsenal are reportedly exploring a move for Bayer Leverkusen and England defender Jarell Quansah as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his defensive options.
Quansah left Liverpool for Leverkusen last summer in a deal worth around £35 million and has completed just one season in Germany. His strong performances have now reportedly caught Arsenal’s attention.
However, securing his signature may not be straightforward. Sky Sports reports that Leverkusen are reluctant to sell the defender and would expect a substantial fee, potentially including a significant profit, before considering any proposal.
Liverpool also had the opportunity to re-sign their academy graduate this summer through a £70 million buy-back clause, but the Reds opted against triggering it. Had they activated the clause, Quansah would have returned to Anfield as one of Liverpool’s most expensive defensive signings.
Arsenal’s interest in Quansah comes as they continue searching for defensive reinforcements. The Gunners have also been linked with Aston Villa centre-back Ezri Konsa and are reportedly understood to have made a verbal offer of approximately £35 million.
Villa, however, are believed to value Konsa much higher, with reports suggesting they could demand as much as £65 million.
With both Quansah and Konsa on Arsenal’s radar, Arteta appears keen to strengthen his centre-back options ahead of the new season. But persuading Leverkusen to sell Quansah after just one year could prove extremely difficult.
The situation remains ongoing, with more developments expected as Arsenal continue their summer transfer plans.
