Barcelona have opened the door to Arsenal signing Jules Kounde after Mikel Arteta sanctioned a move for the defender, according to reports in Spain.
Arteta is keen to welcome a new centre-back to the Emirates Stadium after William Saliba injured his back during France’s World Cup campaign. The Premier League champions have been vague about the severity of Saliba’s setback but said he would be out for an ‘extended period’ in a statement last month.
As a result Arsenal are looking at alternative targets and made an approach for Barcelona defender Kounde. Indeed, the report declared Barca would ‘accept a multi-million euro offer for Kounde’ if one arrives.
Kounde can play in both positions, featuring more as a full-back since his move to Barcelona from Sevilla in 2022. The 27-year-old was also part of France’s World Cup squad and started the semi-final defeat to eventual winners Spain at right-back, showing the versatility which has made him such an interesting proposition for Arsenal.
But Villa value the 28-year-old at £60m and Arsenal have so far indicated they are only willing to pay around £40m. Nevertheless, it stands to reason Barca would hope to generate at least the €55m they paid when signing Kounde from Sevilla four years ago.