Arsenal consider move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde

Arsenal are considering a summer move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, according to reports in Spain.

Spanish newspaper Sport says the France international has emerged as a potential target for Mikel Arteta’s side, who are assessing whether to make an approach for the experienced defender.

Kounde could be open to leaving Barcelona if he receives a sufficiently attractive offer. That could give Arsenal an opportunity to test whether the Catalan club would be willing to sell the 27-year-old this summer.

Barcelona are currently looking to reduce their wage bill by allowing several players to leave. According to the report, Kounde is no longer regarded as an indispensable member of Hansi Flick’s plans, which could make his departure possible if the right proposal arrives.

The Spanish club have already allowed Ronald Araujo to join Liverpool on loan, while Marc Casado is also expected to leave as part of a wider reshaping of the squad.

Kounde’s experience at the highest level is considered a major attraction for Arsenal. He represented France at the 2026 World Cup and would offer a player capable of making an immediate contribution rather than needing several years to develop.

Although Kounde mainly played as a central defender during his time at Sevilla, he has developed into an accomplished right-back since moving to Barcelona. His ability to operate in more than one position is a quality highly valued by Arteta.

Right-back could become an area Arsenal need to strengthen, particularly if Ben White is allowed to leave. Kounde would provide pace, defensive ability and considerable experience, while also giving Arteta greater flexibility when selecting his defence.

At 27, the Frenchman is entering what are generally regarded as the prime years of his career. Arsenal would therefore be targeting a player expected to offer an immediate improvement, rather than signing a younger defender whose development would take time.

Barcelona have several options available at right-back, including Eric Garcia and Xavi Espart. That depth could make the club more receptive to selling Kounde if Arsenal make an acceptable offer.

Reports claim Barcelona have set an asking price of £51m for the defender. However, if Arsenal can negotiate that figure down, Kounde could become an attractive signing for Arteta’s team.

Kounde joined Barcelona from Sevilla in the summer of 2022. Since completing that transfer, he has made 188 appearances for the Catalan club and scored 10 goals.

Speculation over his future has increased in recent weeks. The defender had previously been linked with moves to Bayern Munich and Chelsea earlier in the summer, and Arsenal are now understood to be considering whether to enter the race for his signature.