Update On Arsenal And Their Pursuit Of This Barcelona Defender: What Should Arteta Do? | OneFootball

In a recent interview with Caughtoffside, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Arsenal and their pursuit of Barcelona defender Jules Kounde. Romano said,

“I’m aware there have been some reports of Arsenal looking at Jules Kounde as someone to replace Jurrien Timber.

“My understanding, however, is that both Xavi and Kounde have always been very clear, they want to keep going together at Barca, so at the moment the situation is quiet.

“In any case, Kounde would cost lot of money; not a cheap deal at all. I’m not aware of concrete contacts at this stage.”

Kounde’s Impressive Run Of Form At The Nou Camp

Kounde enjoyed a solid season at the Catalan club as he put in a run of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The French talent made 40 appearances for Barca in the previous campaign, netting one goal and grabbing six assists on all fronts.

The 24-year-old was a decent performer when defending inside his half based on his average of 1.3 shots, 0.7 interceptions and 1.9 clearances per game in La Liga. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from the back as evidenced by his pass success rate of 88.8% in league football (stats via whoscored).

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 01: Jules Kounde #23 of FC Barcelona looks to make a pass during a preseason friendly match against AC Milan during the 2023 Soccer Champions Tour at Allegiant Stadium on August 01, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)

What Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Do With Regards To Kounde?

Kounde is a good tackler of the ball and doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required. He can sense the danger well to secure possession back for his team inside his half.

The French sensation is a tidy passer of the ball as well. Kounde is primarily a central defender but can also fill in as a right-back if told to do so. However, there are some concerns over whether he has what it takes to cope with the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football.

Still, someone with Kounde’s skillset would have no doubt added more quality to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta‘s defence. However, the France international is under contract at Barcelona until the summer of 2027 which would make it difficult for the Gunners to land him on the cheap before the end of this transfer window.