Arsenal turn to Kounde but Spurs hold key

Arsenal's search for defensive cover may hinge on a favour from their bitter rivals Tottenham.

J. Koundé

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What happened. Arsenal are monitoring Barcelona defender Jules Kounde as they seek an experienced defender to cover for the injured William Saliba, but the move has stalled and may require Tottenham's help.

• Arsenal also considered Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa but his £60m valuation and Liverpool interest complicate a deal.
• Kounde can play right-back or centre-back, offering tactical flexibility.
• Kounde has four years left on his Barcelona contract, so he won't come cheap.

Arsenal need to resolve their defensive cover before the season starts, with Saliba out due to a back injury.

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ArsenalTottenhamMikel Arteta

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