Arsenal eye English-Ghanaian Jarell Quansah as Saliba injury forces Arteta into defensive rethink

Arsenal have identified Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as a potential solution to their defensive problems following William Saliba’s injury.

The Gunners are yet to open negotiations with Leverkusen, who have no desire to part with the 23-year-old after only one season in Germany. However, Quansah is understood to be open to a move should Arsenal’s interest develop into a concrete offer.

The English international of Ghanaian descent joined Leverkusen from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth £30 million ($40.5m), according to the Premier League club. The agreement also included a €70m (£59m; $80m) buy-back option for Liverpool, but the deadline for activating that clause has now passed.

Versatile defender fits Arteta’s plans

Arsenal’s interest comes as Mikel Arteta seeks defensive cover for Saliba, who suffered a setback with his long-standing back problem during the 2026 World Cup.

The France international is currently resting before beginning his rehabilitation, with Arsenal confirming that he is expected to miss an “extended period”.

Quansah fits the profile Arsenal are seeking. He is primarily a centre-back but can also operate at right-back, giving Arteta greater flexibility in defence.

He is not the only player on Arsenal’s radar. The North London club have also explored a move for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, although there is currently a significant difference between the two clubs’ valuations of the 28-year-old.

Arsenal had previously considered Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, but a deal was effectively ruled out after Spurs made it clear they were unwilling to sell the Argentina international to their North London rivals.

Quansah rebuilt reputation in Germany

Quansah emerged from Liverpool’s academy and enjoyed his breakthrough campaign during the 2023-24 season.

His opportunities became more limited during Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign in 2024-25, when he made only four starts in the top flight. Overall, he made 58 appearances for the club across all competitions, scoring three goals.

His move to Germany has since provided the defender with a more prominent role.

Quansah made 44 appearances during his first season at Leverkusen and scored five goals, despite the club finishing sixth in the Bundesliga.

His performances have also strengthened his position with England. He has earned six international caps and featured three times during the 2026 World Cup.

With Saliba facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Arsenal are now weighing up whether Quansah can provide the quality, versatility and Premier League experience required to strengthen Arteta’s defence.