BREAKING NEWS: “I’m still perplexed as to why he would join an organization like Arsenal, which hasn’t won a big title in a long time. Pep Guardiola declares, “Players like him don’t deserve my respect,” as Arsenal successfully hijacks his long-term summer transfer objective.

Arsenal Football Club has expressed interest in acquiring Jules Koundé, a center-back currently playing for Barcelona, according to reports from Spain. The initial news comes from Jijantes and has been relayed by El Desmarque, indicating that the Gunners have shown an interest in the player.

Arsenal has already reached out to Barcelona to discuss both the club’s and Koundé’s stance on a possible transfer. However, it remains unclear if these discussions have progressed or if Arsenal plans to make a formal bid soon.

Reports from Sport, also cited by El Desmarque, suggest that Barcelona is open to considering offers for Koundé during this transfer window.

The exact amount Barcelona would require to release the defender is uncertain, even though Koundé is under contract with the team until 2027 and is currently valued at €45 million by Transfermarkt. Given Barcelona’s need to sell players to finance new signings, Arsenal could potentially secure the player with a substantial offer.

Koundé, 25, joined Barcelona from Sevilla two years ago in a £41.8 million deal and has completed his second season with the club. Although he is versatile enough to play both as a center-back and a right-back, he primarily played on the right side of Barcelona’s defense last season and has continued in this position for France during the Euro 2024 group stages.

Arsenal’s interest in Koundé may signal the club’s intention to bolster its defensive line, which has been a priority for manager Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners have also been linked with several other defenders recently, including Joan Garcia and Viktor Gyokeres. Notably, Koundé has a €1 billion release clause in his contract with Barcelona, implying that Arsenal would need to negotiate a transfer fee directly with the club.

Barcelona’s financial situation could influence their willingness to sell Koundé, as the club needs to raise funds for new player acquisitions.

While the reports of Arsenal’s interest are encouraging, whether a deal will come to fruition is still uncertain. The Gunners might face competition from other clubs interested in signing Koundé, and Barcelona’s valuation of the player could pose a significant hurdle in negotiations.