Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen his Arsenal squad before the summer transfer window closes. The Premier League champions begin their title defence in eight days against Coventry City, but first face Manchester City on Sunday in the Community Shield.
Despite missing out on Vinicius Junior after he signed a contract extension with Real Madrid, the Gunners acquired his international team-mate Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United in a £75million deal. The 28-year-old's arrival marked Arsenal's fourth summer signing, but plans to add further remain among Arteta's priorities. The north London side are said to be targeting a Barcelona star, while an £85m-rated player has opened the door to an England move.
Barcelona target emerges
Arsenal have attempted to sign defensive reinforcements this summer, but to no avail. William Saliba's absence for "an extended period" leaves Arteta without one of his best defenders ahead of the new season. The Premier League champions have been interested in Aston Villa star Ezri Konsa but are set to turn their attention to Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, if the France international opens the door to a possible move, Spanish outlet Sport reports.
The outlet claims that Arsenal are looking for a centre-back, who can also cover the right side of defence. Kounde, 27, certainly fits the bill as prior to joining Barcelona, he played in central defence for Sevilla and moved to full-back after signing for the Catalan giants, which is a position he also plays for the national team. Kounde is said to be a cheaper alternative to Konsa, who has been valued at £60million by the Europa League champions. The Frenchman has reported for pre-season training in Spain and played a key role in Barca's back-to-back title triumphs.
£85m star open to Premier League move
Bayer Leverkusen star Christian Kofane revealed that he'd be open to joining the Premier League in the future. The 20-year-old impressed in his debut season with the Bundesliga club, with seven goals and nine assists in 44 games. The striker came up against the Gunners last season in the Champions League round of 16 and showcased his potential in both legs despite his side coming up short.
His agent Eric Depolo seemingly claimed that his performances led to the Gunners enquiring about his situation, but warned them that they'd have to part ways with £85m to get his client. He told Daily Arsenal earlier this year: "Yes, Arsenal's interest is genuine. The manager [Mikel Arteta] likes him very much. I think it is too early to say [which club is leading the race]."
"But due to the fact that the player speaks Spanish, like Mikel Arteta, and that William Saliba is originally from Cameroon, I would say Arsenal are in pole position." Depolo added: "He is a €100million (£85m) player. With Kofane, Arsenal will have a top striker for the next 10 years." Opening up about a possible move to England, Kofane told Kicker: "I can certainly imagine it, yes. It’s one of the best leagues in the world. But I want to take it step by step. I’m young and still have big plans with Bayer Leverkusen."
