Bayer Leverkusen has rejected the idea of selling their English defender Jarell Quansah to Arsenal during the summer transfer window, despite the Gunners entering talks to explore the possibility of bringing the player back to the Premier League.
Arsenal’s move came following the injury sustained by William Saliba with the France national team at the 2026 World Cup, which will sideline the French centre-back for an extended period. This prompted the club to begin searching for a player capable of filling the right centre-back role and providing the necessary cover during their Premier League title defense.
The German club has made an internal decision to consider Quansah untouchable. Furthermore, his contract no longer includes a release clause or a buy-back option for Liverpool, making a deal highly unlikely unless Leverkusen’s stance changes suddenly.
Quansah was a suitable option for Mikel Arteta due to his ability to play both as a centre-back and a right-back—a position he featured in during three matches for the England national team at the recent World Cup. He also possesses the height, pace, and ability to build play from the back.
Arsenal is also suffering from a lack of ready options on the right flank, following physical issues that have sidelined Jurrien Timber and Ben White in recent months. This forced Arteta to rely on Christian Mosquera and Declan Rice in the right-back position during some games.
Leverkusen refuses to let go of Quansah after he became a key pillar in their backline. The club views him as a player capable of developing and leading the defense in the coming seasons, especially since his contract runs until June 2030.
Quansah moved to Leverkusen in the summer of 2025 for an initial fee of £30 million, seeking regular playing time and development away from Liverpool’s bench.
The 23-year-old had a strong season in Germany, making 44 appearances across all competitions and scoring 5 goals, including 4 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances.
Following Leverkusen’s refusal to sell Quansah, Arsenal may shift their focus back to Ezri Konsa, despite Aston Villa demanding over £60 million. Other options on the shortlist include Cristian Romero and John Stones, while Atletico Madrid insists on keeping Marc Pubill.
