BREAKING NEWS: He’ll bench timber,Arsenal has sent a bid to trigger the release clause of a world-class defender who was rejected twice by Chelsea.

Arsenal have reportedly initiated discussions to acquire a Barcelona star currently gearing up for a Euro 2024 last-16 match. Mikel Arteta is targeting various profiles to enhance Arsenal’s squad for the upcoming season.

Last season, Arsenal lacked depth, particularly in providing adequate backups for key players like William Saliba and Bukayo Saka.

Although it is challenging to find replacements for such pivotal players, Arsenal aims to be better equipped to allow them some rest. This summer, Arsenal has been linked with several wingers, notably Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, who is impressing at Euro 2024.

However, Williams is not the only player on Arsenal’s radar at the tournament. Barcelona’s Jules Kounde has also caught their attention.

Kounde has been France’s starting right-back at Euro 2024 and can play across the entire back line. According to Barcelona expert journalist Gerard Moreno, Arsenal has expressed interest in the Frenchman.

They have inquired about Kounde’s availability, considering he could be an ideal backup for Saliba at right center-back. However, given Kounde’s talent, he would not be merely a backup but a significant addition to the squad.

Moreno revealed on Twitch that Arsenal recently contacted Barcelona regarding Kounde. Although the interest appears to be in its early stages, it suggests Arsenal might pursue the player more aggressively. Barcelona acquired Kounde for £42 million in 2023, and with Hansi Flick newly appointed as Barcelona’s manager, losing such a valuable player would be undesirable.

Edu, Arsenal’s technical director, has consistently avoided overpaying for transfer targets, a factor that could influence negotiations. Meanwhile, Napoli is reportedly considering a move for an Arsenal defender this summer, underscoring the need for a versatile player like Kounde. His potential arrival would address Arsenal’s defensive shortcomings and provide depth and quality to the squad.