Arsenal have expressed an interest in signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as they continue discussions over a potential move for Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa.
Talks over Quansah are currently at an exploratory stage, but sources suggest a deal for the 23-year-old could be possible.
The potential move comes as Arsenal hold further talks with Villa over Konsa, with the Premier League club valuing the 28-year-old at around £40m, while Villa want a fee closer to £60m.
Quansah would fit the profile of defender Arsenal are looking for because he can operate at both centre-back and right-back.
However, it remains unclear whether Arsenal’s interest in the former Liverpool defender represents a genuine alternative to Konsa or is part of their efforts to strengthen their defensive options.
Arsenal are facing concerns over their defensive depth ahead of the new Premier League season.
William Saliba will miss the start of Arsenal’s title defence against promoted Coventry City next weekend after suffering a back injury at the World Cup.
Netherlands international Jurrien Timber is also a doubt after missing two months towards the end of last season with an ankle injury.
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Liverpool have the option to match any offer for Quansah as part of the agreement that took him from Anfield to Leverkusen last year.
However, it is understood the Merseyside club have no intention of activating the clause.
Quansah was part of the England squad that reached the semi-finals of the World Cup this summer.
He started three matches at right-back during the tournament but was sent off in the last-16 tie against Mexico.
The dismissal ruled him out of England’s quarter-final victory over Norway and their semi-final defeat by Argentina.
Quansah made 44 appearances for Leverkusen last season and scored five goals.
Arsenal’s talks over Konsa are continuing, although there remains a significant difference in valuation between the two clubs.
Villa’s £60m asking price is around £20m higher than Arsenal’s current valuation of the England international.
With Quansah also now under consideration, Arsenal have options as they assess how best to reinforce their defence before the new season.
