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Arsenal make contact to sign Barcelona star Jules Kounde

By Ritayan Chatterjee on July 3, 2024

Arsenal have reportedly expressed their interest in signing Barcelona star Jules Kounde this summer, as per a recent Spanish report.

It is an open secret that the Gunners are planning to strengthen their frontline and the engine room in this window. But, it seems they are also aiming to add depth to their backline as they have been linked with a few defenders in recent times.

Sports cites Jijantes as a source and says that Arsenal are interested in Kounde and have already held talks with the Blaugrana to learn about the details of signing him.

The Spanish outlet further states that Barcelona have informed the North London club that they will take a while before deciding whether to sell the Frenchman or not as they would be open to cashing-in on him if Ronald Araujo remains but Kounde won’t be allowed to leave should the Uruguayan leaves.

The report also states that Barcelona are in financial difficulties so they are planning to sell some of their stars to balance the books but won’t allow their assets to leave for cheap as they want at least £51m for Kounde.

Kounde to Arsenal

Kounde is a centre-back by traits but can also play in the right-back role. The former Sevilla star previously expressed his reluctance to play in the fullback position but he has been a regular right-back for club and country in recent campaigns.

The France international is quick, comfortable playing out from the back and also efficient in defensive contributions. So, he could be a shrewd signing for Arsenal if they purchase him.

However, having already got Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber, Arsenal don’t need to splash a big fee to sign a new right-sided defender. Instead, they would be better off exploring options to strengthen the left side of defence as they lack qualities in that department.

Oleksandr Zinchenko has been a key player in Mikel Arteta’s first eleven in recent years but it is apparent that he lacks qualities in defensive contributions. On the other hand, Jakub Kiwior hasn’t been able to flourish his career in the Premier League after joining the club.