Arsenal chasing Belgium under-21 defender

Arsenal scouts are monitoring the progress of Belgium under-19 international Josue Kongolo, as the versatile defender continues to impress in the Jupiler League with current club Genk. Kongolo came through the ranks at his team, and signed a professional deal in 2022, and has reportedly told the club that he does not wish to extend his current contract, expiring in 2028.

The Gunners have struggled with injuries in defensive areas so far this season, with Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori both sidelined for the busy January schedule. Arsenal are open to bringing in new players and believe that with Kongolo's intention to leave the club, a fee of around £2,500,000 could be enough to bring in the youth prospect.

Mikel Arteta has been working with sporting director Andrea Berta ahead of the January window, and adding defensive reinforcements is on the agenda at this time.

Kongolo's preferred position is central defence, but is said to be equally comfortable as a right-back.

Kongolo has yet to play for Genk on a regular basis, but is on the verge of first-team.