Arsenal keen on Quansah as defensive concerns mount

Arsenal have shown interest in securing the services of Jarell Quansah, according to reports. The England international, who currently plays for German club Bayer Leverkusen, could be a potential addition to the Gunners' backline.

The interest comes as Arsenal prepare for the start of their Premier League title defence. The team will be without centre-back William Saliba for an extended period. Saliba suffered a back injury during the World Cup and will miss the opening match against promoted Coventry City. Additionally, Netherlands full-back Jurrien Timber is also a fitness concern, as he continues to struggle after an ankle problem that kept him sidelined for two months near the end of the previous season.

Quansah's situation is complicated by a clause in his transfer deal. When he left Liverpool for the Bundesliga club last year, Liverpool retained the option to match any offer made for the defender. However, sources indicate that Liverpool do not intend to activate this clause, potentially clearing the way for Arsenal.

Quansah was part of the England squad that reached the World Cup semi-finals this summer. He featured in three matches, all at right-back, but was sent off in the last-16 game against Mexico. As a result, he missed the quarter-final victory over Norway and the semi-final defeat to Argentina.

During the past season, Quansah made 44 appearances for Leverkusen and scored five goals.