Arsenal Target Como’s Jacobo Ramon Following William Saliba Back Injury
The Gunners face competition from Chelsea and structural hurdles with Real Madrid as they seek defensive cover.
Arsenal have added Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon to their list of defensive targets as they seek urgent cover following a serious injury to France international William Saliba.
Saliba was forced off at the half-hour mark during France’s 2-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup semi-finals after experiencing discomfort in his back. Specialist evaluations upon his return to London confirmed a significant back injury requiring immediate rehabilitation, ruling the 25-year-old defender out for an extended period.
The long-term absence of Saliba, who has established himself as a central figure in North London in recent seasons, has turned Arsenal’s search for central defensive depth from a general market opportunity into an immediate priority.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal are actively monitoring the 21-year-old Ramon, though they face direct competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea, who are also keeping close tabs on the defender.
Any potential deal for Ramon involves complex contractual dynamics due to his former club, Real Madrid. The Spanish giants retain a buy-back clause as well as a 50 percent share of the player’s economic rights, creating structural and financial hurdles for suitors. Como are expected to demand a fee substantially higher than his £25 million valuation on Transfermarkt.
Standing 6-foot-5, the Spain Under-21 international established himself as a dominant defensive presence in Serie A last season. Statistically, Ramon registered 182 duels won, 122 clearances, 116 recoveries, and 113 successful aerial duels. In possession, he recorded a 91.4 percent pass completion rate over 2,526 touches.
Arsenal are exploring multiple options to address their backline depth, with reports from The Telegraph indicating that Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa has also been identified as a candidate.
