Arsenal are interested in a move for Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde, but they may struggle to complete the signing this summer.

Jules Kounde of Sevilla FC during Spanish La Liga match between Villarreal cf and Sevilla FC at La Ceramica Stadium on May 17, 2021. Copyright: Jose Miguel Fernandez
Jules Kounde of Sevilla FC during Spanish La Liga match between Villarreal cf and Sevilla FC at La Ceramica Stadium on May 17, 2021. Copyright: Jose Miguel Fernandez

The Athletic report that right-centre-back remains one of Arsenal’s priorities this summer, along with creative midfield. According to David Ornstein, Sevilla’s Jules Kounde is a signing the Gunners would like to make.

Unfortunately, it’s also not a simple transfer. Sevilla want around £50m, and given they qualified for next season’s Champions League, Arsenal would be trying to convince Kounde to give up European football.

Arsenal scouts have been watching Kounde since early 2019, according to reports at the time. That was when he was still with Bordeaux, before his €25m move to Sevilla that summer.

The Spanish side are now trying to double their money to move him on.

Kounde is an excellent passer and he’s very strong in the air. With David Luiz leaving the club, ability on the ball is likely to be a trait Arsenal value in a potential centre-back signing.

But for a £50m defender, Kounde’s tackling and interception stats are average at best. At 22, perhaps that’s something Arsenal believe he’ll improve on with time.

For now, the move doesn’t look hugely likely anyway. It’s going to require quite a few sales first.