Barcelona have asked Arsenal to remain patient if they want to sign Jules Kounde this summer, according to Sport.
The Catalan newspaper claims that the Gunners are keen on recruiting the France international but Barca need to clarify the future of Ronald Araujo before giving their response.
With the Uruguayan having so far refused to sign a new contract, there is a possibility that he could be sold instead of Kounde over the coming weeks.
However, if the defender stays, Sport says that Barcelona “will open negotiations” about selling Kounde to Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal will have to pay a sizeable fee
It is believed that the La Liga club will not sell the Frenchman for less than €60m (£51m) and that is likely to be much more than the Gunners are willing to pay.
While they are in the market for a centre-half, they are not looking to break the bank, especially as they already have a solid partnership in the form of William Saliba and Gabriel.
Are alternatives to Kounde being considered?
With Barca refusing to make a decision on Kounde at the moment, it looks like the Gunners will move on to other targets. Respected journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed over the weekend that Arsenal have made enquiries for Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori.
The Italian had an impressive season at club level, helping his team secure Champions League qualification.
Calafiori also caught the eye with his performances for his country at Euro 2024, starting all three group stage games before missing the defeat to Switzerland in the last 16 due to suspension.
The 22-year-old is likely to be much cheaper than Kounde as well, with it being reported that Bologna are expected to demand between €40m (£34m) and €50m (£42m) for the centre-back.
