Arsenal’s summer transfer plans could soon become a lot more complicated. According to Graeme Bailey of TBR Football, Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of Barcelona’s versatile defender Jules Kounde, entering constant contact with his representatives. Arsenal and Liverpool are also keen on the Frenchman, setting up a potential Premier League bidding war.
Arsenal’s defensive concerns surface again
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners have enjoyed a largely strong campaign, but familiar cracks in the defensive unit have emerged when it mattered most. Gabriel Magalhães’ injury struggles, coupled with a lack of high-level depth behind William Saliba and Ben White, have exposed the need for reliable reinforcements ahead of a crucial 2025/26 season.
Jules Kounde ticks a lot of the right boxes.
At 26, the French international is entering his prime years and has already established himself as a proven performer at the elite level with Sevilla and Barcelona. His ability to play both at centre-back and right-back with equal competence would offer Arteta vital tactical flexibility — a valuable trait given Arsenal’s fluid positional rotations.
Chelsea step up pursuit — but the race remains open
Chelsea’s interest, however, complicates matters. The London rivals are believed to have made direct approaches to Kounde’s camp and maintain regular communication as they aim to bolster their shaky defensive line. Mauricio Pochettino’s side conceded 63 Premier League goals last season, their worst record in over two decades — underlining the urgent need for reinforcements.
Liverpool are also monitoring the situation, particularly given the persistent injury troubles surrounding Joe Gomez. New manager Arne Slot has identified defence as a priority area for strengthening, and Kounde’s athletic profile fits the bill.
Still, Arsenal remain very much in the mix — and if Arteta pushes strongly for the player, the Gunners can offer Kounde something Chelsea cannot: immediate Champions League football and a more stable project trajectory.
Barcelona’s financial woes offer an opportunity
Barcelona’s well-documented financial crisis might also play into Arsenal’s hands. The Catalan giants are open to player sales this summer to balance their books and could sanction Kounde’s departure for the right price.
While no official asking fee has been confirmed yet, it’s expected that Barça would demand a figure in the region of €50–60 million — a figure Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all capable of meeting if serious bids are lodged.
The key question will be Kounde’s personal preference. A move to the Premier League has long appealed to him, and Arsenal’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting teams could be a major draw.
Why Kounde would fit perfectly at Arsenal
In many ways, Kounde represents exactly the type of signing Arsenal need to solidify their squad depth. His speed in recovery, comfort in 1v1 duels, and ball-carrying ability make him a natural fit for Arteta’s high-possession, high-line system.
Moreover, his experience of handling pressure situations in La Liga and the Champions League would bring valuable maturity to a relatively young Gunners squad.
If Arsenal can fend off the competition, Kounde could be a game-changing addition — not just a backup, but a potential long-term partner to Saliba at the heart of the defence.
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The battle for his signature is only just heating up. Arsenal must decide quickly whether to act decisively — or risk seeing another top-tier target slip through their fingers.
