Arsenal open talks for England star as Arteta moves to solve defensive headache

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·14 August 2026

Arsenal open talks for England star as Arteta moves to solve defensive headache

Arsenal have reportedly opened talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a possible move for England international Jarell Quansah as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive options.

The Gunners’ need for reinforcements has become increasingly important with William Saliba and Jurrien Timber currently sidelined, and Quansah’s ability to operate both centrally and on the right could make him an attractive option.

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Arsenal in talks for Quansah

According to Sky Sports, Arsenal are now in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen over a potential deal for the 23-year-old.

Quansah only moved to Germany from Liverpool last summer, but enjoyed an impressive first campaign with Leverkusen, making 44 appearances before earning a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup.

He made three appearances at the tournament before returning to Leverkusen following an extended break.

However, convincing the Bundesliga club to sell could prove difficult. Leverkusen are reportedly reluctant to lose the defender after being impressed by both his performances and the way he has adapted to life in Germany.

Quansah also has four years remaining on his contract, meaning Arsenal would likely have to pay considerably more than the fee Leverkusen paid Liverpool last summer.

Interestingly, Liverpool also retain a buy-back clause as part of the deal that took their former academy defender to Germany.

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Quansah’s versatility could appeal to Arteta

One of the obvious attractions for Arsenal is Quansah’s versatility.

Primarily a centre-back, he featured on the right side of a back three for Leverkusen last season and is also capable of providing cover at right-back.

That could be particularly useful for Arteta given Arsenal’s current injury problems. Saliba’s absence leaves the Gunners needing additional central defensive cover, while Timber continues his recovery from the groin problem that has kept him largely sidelined since March.

At just 23, with Premier League, Bundesliga and now World Cup experience behind him, Quansah would offer Arsenal a player capable of covering more than one position while still having plenty of room to develop.

The biggest obstacle could simply be persuading Leverkusen to part with a player they only signed a year ago.

Would Quansah be the right defensive addition for Arsenal, Gooners, and how much would you be prepared to pay to bring him back to the Premier League? Let us know in the comments. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ADMIN COMMENT

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