Arsenal in Talks with Bayer Leverkusen for Garel Kwanzaa

Arsenal has opened negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen regarding the potential signing of English defender Jarrell Quansah, as manager Mikel Arteta aims to bolster his defensive options during the current summer transfer window.

Arsenal is searching for a new defender due to the injuries suffered by William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. Kwanzaa has caught Arteta's eye thanks to his ability to play both as a center-back and a right-back, providing additional tactical flexibility.

Kwansah joined Bayer Leverkusen from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 for £30 million, with the potential for the deal to rise to £35 million through add-ons. However, the German club is not keen on selling the player after just one season, viewing him as a crucial part of their project.

Arsenal is expected to have to pay a much larger amount than the £30 million that Bayer Leverkusen paid Liverpool, as reports suggest that the German club values the defender at around €50 million, while Arsenal remains hesitant about meeting this figure.

Negotiations continue between the two parties, with Bayer Leverkusen standing firm on its position regarding the player. Meanwhile, Arsenal is exploring its defensive options to finalize the deal before the start of the new season.