Arsenal in talks to sign Jarell Quansah from Bayer Leverkusen
Arsenal are in talks with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen over a potential deal for defender Jarell Quansah, according to Sky Sports News.
With William Saliba ruled out for an extended period, the Gunners are on the hunt to sign another defender this summer and have landed on the six-cap England international as a possible option.
Mikel Arteta is clearly keen on adding further defensive depth to his ranks and Quansah's versatility, young age and Premier League experience could make him an ideal choice in the backline.
Arsenal in talks to sign Jarell Quansah
The report by Dharmesh Sheth and Rob Dorsett suggests Arsenal have opened talks with Leverkusen from Quansah, but a deal would take some work.
The 2023/24 Bundesliga champions are thought to be reluctant to sell due to being impressed with his performances last season and his mature attitude while adapting to his new environment.
It is likely that if the Gunners were to agree a deal, they would have to pay significantly higher than the £30million Leverkusen paid to sign Quansah from Liverpool last summer and that is completely expected with four years remaining on his contract.
He made 44 appearances during his first season in Germany after bidding farewell to his boyhood club, where he played 58 times and won the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
His impressive performances with Leverkusen earned him a call-up to Thomas Tuchel's England squad for this year's World Cup. Quansah played in three of his nation's game, but was sent off in their round of 16 victory over Mexico.
With Arteta eager to add to his defence, the former Liverpool man is seen as a good option due to his versatility. Primarily a centre back, he is also capable of playing at right back, having done so at the World Cup, so he would act as great cover for Saliba as well as Jurrien Timber.
Quansah is open to a move if there are any developments, but Leverkusen are under no pressure to sanction a sale given Liverpool's £59m buy-black clause has now expired.
Arsenal have also reignited their interest in fellow England defender Ezri Konsa, who is valued by Aston Villa at around £60m meaning he could be a cheaper option than Quansah due to Leverkusen's reluctance to sell.
Both players are brilliant options and would offer plenty to the Gunners' defence, but one thing is for certain and that is the club need to speed up their business with the opening game of the Premier League season just one week away.
