Arsenal assess Jarell Quansah option as summer defensive search continues

Arsenal have added Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah to their shortlist as they explore ways to strengthen their defence during the summer transfer window.

Sources told ESPN that the north London club are considering a move for the England international, although there have been no direct discussions between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen at this stage. The Premier League club has, however, used intermediaries to examine whether a deal for Quansah could be possible.

Bayer Leverkusen are understood to be reluctant to sell the defender, having only signed him from Liverpool last summer. The transfer was worth £30m, equivalent to $40.6m.

It is not yet clear how much Arsenal would be prepared to offer for Quansah. A difference in valuation could become an obstacle, as it has in the club’s efforts to sign Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.

Aston Villa value Konsa at about £60m, while Arsenal have previously indicated that they would be willing to make an offer worth roughly half that amount. Sources told ESPN that Arsenal are expected to increase their interest in Konsa, but it remains uncertain whether the two clubs can find a compromise.

Arsenal’s assessment of Quansah is therefore part of a wider search for alternatives as the club continues to consider its defensive options. The Gunners are looking for a player who can provide flexibility across the back line, with both Quansah and Konsa able to operate as right-backs or centre-backs.

The two defenders were included in England’s squad under manager Thomas Tuchel, which finished third at the World Cup this summer. That tournament success has placed both players among the notable England defenders being considered by Arsenal as they plan for the new campaign.

Quansah made 44 appearances during his first season with Bayer Leverkusen. His ability to play in more than one defensive position is understood to be one of the qualities that has attracted Arsenal’s attention.

The club has yet to open direct negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen, and there is no indication that a formal offer for Quansah has been made. Arsenal’s current interest amounts to an exploration of the possibility of a transfer, while their pursuit of Konsa is also complicated by the gap between the player’s valuation and the amount they have so far suggested they may pay.

With both deals potentially difficult to complete, Quansah has emerged as one of the names on Arsenal’s shortlist rather than an established transfer target. The club is expected to continue assessing its options before deciding whether to make a formal approach for either defender.