Arsenal in for 100m defender they previously failed to sign: report

"According to new information from Brazil, Arsenal are again preparing to step up their interest in Mohamed Kone, 18, who is already valued at a staggering 100m (86.4m). The Brazilian side invested around 2m (1.7m) to secure Kone's services in 2023, viewed with two points of interest. One to help him develop and two to maximise the sell-on fee when inevitably a big team comes calling."

"The Gunners are said to be 'positioning themselves early' to steal a march on other sides across Europe, with a view to snatching his signature before he even makes his senior debut. Sporting director Andrea Berta has been tasked with the job, although they are relaxed over the situation for now, but want to be the first in line and strike when the correct opportunity arises."

Arsenal have re-entered the transfer market for Mohamed Kone, an 18-year-old Ivorian defender currently at Palmeiras in Brazil. The club's interest began in 2023 when Kone was just 16 years old playing in Ivory Coast. After moving to Brazil three years ago, Kone has signed professional terms with Palmeiras and is registered with their first team while gaining experience with the U20 side. Now valued at €100m, Kone is considered one of the biggest emerging defensive talents. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is tasked with pursuing the player, with the club positioning themselves early to secure his signature before he makes his senior debut. Chelsea and Barcelona have also previously shown interest in the teenager.

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