The transfer market is already starting to rev up, in London, they are already preparing for significant moves. Mikel Arteta, leading Arsenal's ambitious sports project, keeps an eye on what is happening in other major clubs of the European elite. One of the teams he follows the most is FC Barcelona, where the Spanish coach has identified a profile that could fit perfectly into his game plan.
Arsenal's focus is especially on strengthening the defense, a line that has improved a lot at the Emirates, but Arteta wants to take it to the next level. In that context, his goal is to add a footballer who combines defensive solidity with good ball distribution and the ability to adapt to various roles on the field. A complete profile, difficult to find, but one that seems to have been identified in Hansi Flick's team.
Arteta's Firm Desire
According to Barça's sports management, the name that has caught Arsenal's attention is Jules Koundé. The Frenchman, an undisputed starter at the Catalan club, has had a solid season playing as a right-back, but offering performances typical of a top-level central defender. His positional intelligence and game reading make him a highly valued piece by Flick, who already considers him one of his most trusted men in the line-up.
But despite Arsenal's interest, Barça has no intention of opening the door for him. Koundé is considered non-transferable by the management, and both Laporta and the player himself are aligned in continuing to bet on his continuity. The defender is also comfortable in Barcelona, well-integrated into the locker room, and committed to the project, so there are no signs that he is looking for a change of scenery.
Defensive Pillar
Hansi Flick's arrival on Barça's bench has been essential for Koundé to recover his best version. Under the direction of the German coach, the Frenchman has shown remarkable maturity and has managed to establish himself as one of the pillars of the defense. Additionally, his good relationship with other defenders like Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez has been crucial in several key matches.
From the offices at Camp Nou, his profile is valued. Beyond what he can offer on the field, Flick has praised him for his qualities. In a market full of rumors, Barça is clear that Koundé is not for sale.