Arsenal seeks defensive reinforcements
Arsenal are reportedly in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen regarding a potential transfer for England defender Jarell Quansah. The London club is looking to bolster its defensive options, particularly with key players Jurrien Timber and William Saliba currently sidelined due to injuries. Saliba is expected to miss an extended period after succumbing to a long-term back problem during the World Cup, necessitating a period of rest before rehabilitation.
Manager Mikel Arteta is keen on adding Quansah to his squad, valuing the player’s versatility as he can operate effectively as both a centre-back and a right-back. This flexibility is seen as crucial given Arsenal’s current defensive needs, which include cover at centre-back and addressing the right-back position. Timber is still recovering from a groin issue that has kept him out since March, and concerns exist regarding Ben White’s injury record.
Quansah recently returned to Bayer Leverkusen after an extended break following his debut World Cup appearance for England, where he featured in three matches. He made 44 appearances in his first season in Germany after moving from Liverpool last summer.
Leverkusen’s stance and contract details
Bayer Leverkusen, however, appears reluctant to sell Quansah. The German club has been impressed with the 23-year-old’s performances in the Bundesliga and his mature adaptation to his new environment. Quansah joined Leverkusen in the summer of 2025 from Liverpool.
Reports suggest that Arsenal would likely need to offer a sum significantly higher than the £30m Leverkusen paid for Quansah last July to secure his services. The defender still has four years remaining on his current contract with the German side. Additionally, Liverpool had included a buy-back clause in Quansah’s contract, valued at approximately £59.8m (€70m), though one report indicates this option has now expired.
Quansah is a product of Liverpool’s academy, having made 58 appearances for the club across all competitions, scoring three goals. In his debut season with Leverkusen, he scored five goals as the team finished sixth in the Bundesliga. He has also earned six caps for England.
Alternative defensive targets
Alongside their interest in Quansah, Arsenal is also maintaining an interest in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, who is also an England international. Both Quansah and Konsa share similar profiles, being capable of playing at both right-back and centre-back, fitting Arteta’s specifications for defensive reinforcements.
However, a significant difference in valuation exists between Arsenal and Aston Villa for Konsa. Villa is reportedly seeking around £60m for the 28-year-old defender, who has two years left on his contract. Arsenal has not yet shown a willingness to meet this valuation. Konsa was not part of the Villa squad for their recent UEFA Super Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain as he is still on his post-World Cup holiday.
Quansah’s attributes, including his height at 6ft 3ins, are seen as beneficial for set pieces and providing a commanding presence in defence. His composure on the ball and influence in build-up play are also considered significant attractions. His year of regular football in Germany is believed to have further enhanced his capabilities.
Leverkusen’s previous season saw them finish sixth in the Bundesliga, conceding 49 goals from 34 league games. The club experienced significant transitions in the summer of 2025, with several key players departing and a new coaching staff now in place under Carles Martinez Novell for the 2026-27 season.
Source: skysports.com
