Arsenal have reportedly seen an enquiry for defender Jules Kounde turned down by Barcelona.
The Gunners are believed to be prioritising additions in midfield and attack this summer, but reinforcements in defence are also thought to be under consideration.
Kounde is one name who has emerged as a potential target, with multiple reports claiming that cash-strapped Barcelona need to sell first-team players to balance their books and generate funds for new signings.
The 25-year-old moved to Camp Nou from Sevilla in July 2022 and he has since made 88 appearances for the Catalan club across all tournaments.
Operating as either a right-back or centre-back, Kounde was a first-team regular under former head coach Xavi last season, starting 45 of his 48 appearances.
The France international, who is currently competing at Euro 2024, still has three years remaining on his contract at Barcelona, but recent reports have suggested that the La Liga giants could entertain offers of €50m (£42.5m) for the defender.
© Reuters
Barca keen to keep hold of Arsenal target Kounde
However, according to journalist Gerard Romero, via the Metro, Barcelona have rejected an initial approach from Arsenal for Kounde.
Romero adds that Barca have informed the Gunners that they are not actively looking to sell the Frenchman this summer unless they receive a "high offer" for the defender.
Arsenal have also been notified that the future of Kounde will depend on whether fellow defender Ronald Araujo departs the club this summer.
Araujo has been tipped to make a big-money exit from Camp Nou, but interested suitors including Manchester United and Bayern Munich are believed to be reluctant to meet Barca's €100m (£84.6m) asking price.
Kounde is not the only Barcelona star on Arsenal's radar, as a report earlier this month claimed that Mikel Arteta's side had tabled a £34m bid for Brazilian winger Raphinha.
It is understood that the 27-year-old has been deemed surplus to requirements by new head coach Hansi Flick, but Barca are holding out for a fee in excess of £50m for the former Leeds United man.
Oliver Thomas
