Arsenal have identified Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah as a potential solution to their defensive concerns following William Saliba’s injury.
The Gunners have yet to open formal negotiations with Leverkusen, who are reportedly reluctant to part ways with the 23-year-old after just one season in Germany.
Quansah, however, is understood to be open to a move to Arsenal should the London club turn their interest into a concrete proposal.
The England international, who is of Ghanaian descent, joined Bayer Leverkusen from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth £30 million ($40.5 million), according to the Premier League club.
The agreement also included a €70 million (£59m; $80m) buy-back option for Liverpool, although the deadline for activating the clause has now passed.
Arsenal’s interest in Quansah comes as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive options following Saliba’s injury setback.
The France international aggravated a long-standing back problem during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is currently resting before beginning his rehabilitation. Arsenal have confirmed that Saliba is expected to be sidelined for an “extended period”.
Quansah is viewed as a player who could fit Arsenal’s requirements due to his versatility. Primarily a centre-back, the defender can also operate at right-back, offering Arteta additional flexibility across the backline.
The former Liverpool academy graduate is not the only defensive option being considered by Arsenal.
The North London club have also explored a potential move for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, although there is currently a significant gap between the two clubs’ valuations of the 28-year-old.
Arsenal had previously looked at Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, but that option appears to have been ruled out after Spurs made it clear they were unwilling to sell the Argentina international to their North London rivals.
Quansah came through Liverpool’s academy and enjoyed his breakthrough campaign during the 2023/24 season.
However, his opportunities became more limited during Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign in 2024/25, when he made just four starts in the top flight.
Overall, Quansah made 58 appearances for Liverpool across all competitions, scoring three goals before making the move to Bayer Leverkusen.
With Saliba facing an extended absence, Arsenal could now consider stepping up their interest in Quansah as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season.
