Arsenal have made contact with Jarell Quansah over a potential move from Bayer Leverkusen as Mikel Arteta considers another defensive signing.
Arsenal have reportedly made contact with Jarell Quansah’s representatives as Mikel Arteta considers a move for the former Liverpool defender.
Quansah left Liverpool for Bayer Leverkusen in a £35 million deal last summer and has since established himself as an important part of the German side. His progress was also recognised by England manager Thomas Tuchel, who selected the 23-year-old for the 2026 World Cup, where the Three Lions finished with a bronze medal.
Tuchel has previously highlighted the qualities that make Quansah such an attractive defensive option, pointing to his combination of physical strength, pace, aerial ability and comfort in possession.
“I have a lot of trust in Jarell. I see his talent, but I see the package. He is tall, he is fast, he is strong in build-up. He is strong in the air.”
🚨 Arsenal interested in Jarell Quansah as consider options for defence. #Bayer04 do not want to sell 23yo & #LFC’s €70m buy-back option expired so no pressure. England int’l open to #AFC possibility if situation evolves @TheAthleticFC post @RobDorsettSky https://t.co/l79ui4iPYh
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 14, 2026
The England international’s versatility is another factor that could appeal to Arsenal. Quansah has experience at centre-back but also impressed when used at right-back during his time at Liverpool, giving Arteta another option in a position where tactical flexibility is increasingly important.
According to reports, Arsenal have already taken the first step by contacting Quansah’s camp this week about a potential transfer. Bayer Leverkusen, however, are understood to be keen to keep the defender for another season.
Liverpool will also be watching the situation with interest. The Reds reportedly had a €70 million buy-back clause for Quansah this summer, but that option has now expired. There are also reportedly no clauses giving other clubs a similar route to signing him.
Arsenal had previously explored a move for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, but his valuation proved too high for the Gunners. Quansah could now represent an alternative, particularly given his age, international experience and potential to develop further.
A move to North London would also carry an intriguing storyline given Quansah’s Liverpool background. The defender left Anfield just as his former club were looking at the possibility of bringing him back, meaning an Arsenal transfer could see him join one of Liverpool’s biggest domestic rivals instead.
