Arsenal are reported to have launched an initial €75 million (£65 million) bid to sign Barcelona defender.
The Gunners are eager to strengthen their defence under Mikel Arteta and are eager to pip Premier League rivals.
Although Barcelona is eager to keep him, their ongoing financial crisis may leave them with no choice but to sell, especially with him entering the last two years of his contract this summer.
According to Fichajes, the player is Jules Kounde.
Kounde has been a key figure for Barcelona this season, playing 49 games across all competitions and contributing three goals and eight assists.
His versatility to play as a center-back or right-back makes him a desirable target for Arsenal to pursue as the Gunners look to bolster their defense.
Labeled “one of the best defenders in the world,” Kounde would bring experience and tactical intelligence to Arteta’s team, which is looking to mount a credible Premier League title challenge in the coming season.
Barcelona’s books could be the difference in negotiations.
With Hansi Flick waiting for his second in the dugout, the Catalan giants may be forced to sell big-name players to balance their books.
While they would not want to sell Kounde, a massive bid could persuade them to release him, especially with other areas of the team needing to be strengthened.
In the meantime, Arsenal will be working hard during the summer transfer window, with a new striker and wide midfielder at the head of their wish list.
Bringing in Kounde would be a huge statement of intent, with Arsenal demonstrating that they are keen to play at the domestic and European top.
As the summer window draws to a close, the battle for Kounde’s signature may become even more intense, with Chelsea also reportedly interested.
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