Arsenal have conceded 16 goals in the Premier League this season, averaging just under one goal per game.
Although their defensive record appears strong, injuries throughout the campaign have highlighted weaknesses, resulting in occasional lapses.
While signing a striker remains Arsenal’s top priority for 2025, the club is also keeping an eye on potential defensive reinforcements.
As reported by Caught Offside, Mikel Arteta’s team is highly interested in Barcelona’s Jules Kounde and is reportedly ready to bid £62 million for the French international.
Kounde has been exceptional in La Liga, largely due to Hansi Flick deploying him as a right-back this season. Despite excelling in this role, Kounde has primarily played as a central defender throughout his career, offering Arteta valuable versatility in defense.
Although Barcelona has seemingly improved their financial situation, they may be forced to sell Kounde if they fail to register Dani Olmo, who could leave on a free transfer in January. This could prompt the Catalan club to consider Arsenal’s reported £62 million offer.
The 26-year-old would be a significant addition to Arsenal’s squad, competing with Ben White for the right-back role while also serving as a reliable rotation option for central defenders Gabriel and William Saliba. His arrival could mark the end of Takehiro Tomiyasu’s injury-plagued stint at the Emirates.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also reportedly monitoring Kounde’s situation, but Arsenal’s willingness to make a substantial bid may give them the upper hand in securing the highly talented defender.
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