Arsenal consider Jarell Quansah move as Leverkusen hold firm

Arsenal are considering a move for Jarell Quansah as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season.

The Times reports that Quansah is among the defenders being considered by Arsenal and would be open to a return to England after one season with Bayer Leverkusen.

Any move, however, is likely to be difficult.

BILD reports that Leverkusen have no intention of selling the England international this summer and maintain that Arsenal have not yet made a direct approach to the Bundesliga club.

That distinction is important. Arsenal’s interest appears genuine, but there is currently no clear agreement between the clubs and conflicting reports over whether formal negotiations have even begun.

Quansah joined Leverkusen from Liverpool last summer and quickly established himself as an important part of the German club’s defence.

He made 44 appearances in his first season and strengthened his international profile during the World Cup, where his ability to operate both centrally and at right-back added to his value as a versatile defensive option.

That versatility is one of the qualities that could appeal to Arsenal.

Arteta’s squad has been affected by defensive fitness issues during pre-season, with William Saliba unavailable and Jurrien Timber still working toward full fitness. Adding another defender capable of covering more than one position would give Arsenal greater flexibility during the opening months of the campaign.

Quansah would also fit the age profile of a player who could contribute immediately while still having room for further development.

Leverkusen, though, are in a strong position.

The 23-year-old remains under contract until 2030 and became a regular starter during his first year in Germany. The club are understood to see him as an important part of their defensive plans rather than a player they need to sell.

That means Arsenal would likely need to make a significant offer to change Leverkusen’s position.

The situation remains at an early stage and should not yet be described as an advanced transfer.

Arsenal are assessing Quansah as one of several defensive options, while Leverkusen continue to plan for the season with the England international in their squad.

Unless Arsenal formalise their interest with an offer capable of testing Leverkusen’s stance, Quansah is expected to remain in Germany.