Arsenal have shifted their defensive transfer focus toward Barcelona’s Jules Kounde after being priced out of a deal for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa.
The Gunners initially identified Konsa as their primary defensive target heading into the final stages of the summer transfer window.
Aston Villa placed a valuation in excess of €75 million on the England international, a figure Arsenal considered completely out of the market.
Reports indicate there is a significant gap between Aston Villa’s £60 million valuation and Arsenal’s, which is closer to £40 million.
With the Konsa pursuit effectively ended, Arsenal have turned their full attention to monitoring Kounde’s situation at the Catalan club.
Mikel Arteta is keen to reinforce his defensive options, with William Saliba currently sidelined and Jurrien Timber still working his way back to full fitness.
Barcelona are reportedly willing to accept bids for Kounde, despite the 27-year-old having signed a new five-year contract only last summer.
The key factor behind Barcelona’s openness is head coach Hansi Flick, who is expected to favour Eric Garcia over Kounde on the right-hand side of defence this season.
Barcelona are also focused on balancing their books to generate essential salary cap space, following the departure of Ronald Araujo and the impending €40 million sale of Marc Casado.
Despite his club’s willingness to listen to offers, Kounde’s current intention is to remain at Barcelona, though his situation could yet change as the window progresses.
The French defender’s versatility is a significant attraction for Arsenal, given his ability to operate effectively at both centre-back and right-back.
Kounde is unlikely to command the same fee as Konsa, though interest from rival clubs could complicate any potential deal for the Gunners.
Chelsea are described as long-term admirers of the defender, while both Liverpool and Manchester United were also linked with moves earlier this summer.
Arsenal will need to move decisively if they are to win the race for Kounde before the transfer window closes.
