Arsenal have conceded 16 goals in the Premier League this season, maintaining an average of just under one per game.
While their defensive record initially appears solid, injuries throughout the season have exposed vulnerabilities, leading to occasional lapses.
Although acquiring a striker remains Arsenal’s top priority for 2025, the Gunners are also monitoring potential defensive reinforcements.
According to Caught Offside, Mikel Arteta’s side is highly impressed by Barcelona’s Jules Kounde and is reportedly prepared to offer £62 million for the French international.
Kounde has been outstanding in La Liga, largely due to Hansi Flick’s decision to deploy him as a right-back this season.
While excelling in the full-back position, Kounde has primarily played as a central defender during his career, offering Arteta versatility in defensive roles.
Barcelona, despite seemingly overcoming some of their financial challenges, may face pressure to sell if they fail to register Dani Olmo, who could leave for free in January.
This scenario might compel the Catalan club to entertain lucrative offers like Arsenal’s reported £62 million bid.
The 26-year-old would be a stellar addition to Arsenal’s squad. Kounde could compete for the right-back position alongside Ben White and provide a dependable rotation option for center-backs Gabriel and William Saliba. His arrival might also spell the end of Takehiro Tomiyasu’s injury-troubled tenure at the Emirates.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also said to be monitoring Kounde’s situation, but Arsenal’s willingness to make a substantial offer might give them the edge in securing the talented defender.
