Transfers
Romano drops update: Arsenal not close to signing Kounde
Fabrizio Romano drops an update confirming that Arsenal are not in advanced negotiations for Jules Kounde, despite earlier speculation. The clarification was issued on Aug 12, 2026, at 12:15 PM GMT+1.
Arsenal have been hit by a back injury to William Saliba, leaving Mikel Arteta short of defensive options ahead of the new campaign. The manager is also rumored to consider an exit for Ben White as he reshapes the back line.
Romano told viewers, "Questions today on Jules Kounde and Arsenal. At the moment, guys, nothing advanced, for sure." He added that Arsenal continue to look for a centre‑back and that Tottenham are not selling Romero, noting the club’s ongoing search.
Kounde's Barcelona profile
Jules Kounde joined Barcelona from Sevilla in 2022 for a £42m fee and has made 188 appearances, being described as "unbelievable". He now features regularly at right‑back as well as centre‑back for the Catalan giants.
Arteta would value Kounde’s versatility, as the French defender can cover both positions that Arsenal need to reinforce.
Current Arsenal full‑back options include Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber and Ben White, all of whom can also operate in central defence.
Daniel Feliciano's journalism path
After deciding late that he wanted a career in sports journalism, Daniel worked his way up the ladder in an unconventional manner, opting against university and contributing to as a freelance translator during transfer windows.
He then joined Barnet FC’s social media team before launching his own website focused on football and MMA content, which led to roles at 90min, Reach PLC’s titles, and Manchester Evening News. Daniel later spent two‑and‑a‑half years with Breaking Media covering Everton, Rangers, Leeds and West Ham, before becoming Premier League editor at GiveMeSport.
The story is credited By  Daniel Feliciano and was Published Aug 12, 2026, 12:15 PM GMT+1. Readers are prompted to Add Us, Log in and stay tuned for any further Update from Reuters/Andrew Boyers.