Arteta's unexpected transfer target. Arsenal open talks for Bayer defender

Arsenal are gearing up to bolster their defensive line ahead of the new season with a headline signing from the Bundesliga.

Details: According to Sky Sports News, Arsenal have entered direct negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen regarding a potential transfer for 23-year-old England international defender Jarell Quansah.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta highly values the player's versatility and his ability to perform at a high level both in central defence and on the right flank.

Reports suggest that the German club's management have no intention of parting ways with a player who has become a key figure in their starting lineup. For the Londoners to seal the deal, they will have to offer a fee significantly higher than the £30 million (potentially rising to £35 million with bonuses) that Leverkusen paid Liverpool for the defender in the summer of 2025.

It's worth noting that in the 2025/26 season, the player featured in 44 matches for Bayer Leverkusen across all competitions and scored 5 goals. According to Transfermarkt, Jarell Quansah's current market value is €45 million.

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