Nearly three years ago, Arsenal were one of the European clubs eyeing 16-year-old Ivorian defender Mohamed Koné during his youth academy days in Africa.
However, Brazilian side Palmeiras moved quickly to secure a deal, bringing him to the club in 2023 and later tying him to a professional contract in September 2025.
That deal, which included a €100m (£86.5m) release clause, was designed to protect one of the club's most promising assets. Chelsea were also cautious at the time, while Barcelona had already made contact before leaving for Brazil.
Since then, Corner has followed a structured growth path. He is now 18 years old, registered with Palmeiras' first team, and is building on his experience with the U20 team as he prepares for a senior breakthrough.
Despite missing out in the beginning, Arsenal have never fully stepped up. It has simply moved into a new phase.
Arsenal monitoring enters new phase
Latest report from Palmeiras-related insider outlets Make it clear that the Premier League side are still closely monitoring the defender's progress.
This is no longer just the background to the Arsenal interest dating back to his early career. Instead, it reflects ongoing tracking as Kone moves closer to first-team football in Brazil.
The important thing is that no formal bid has been made yet. However, Palmeiras is already aware of the situation internally. Arsenal's continued attention has made the club cautious even at this early stage of the player's senior path.
That detail matters. Clubs do not maintain this level of monitoring without a plan, especially when the player has not yet made his professional debut.
Palmeiras Investment and Security Strategy
Palmeiras' approach helps explain why the situation seems to be under control for now.
The Brazilian side invested around €2m (£1.7m) to secure the corner, with additional terms that could increase both their financial commitment and their share of his economic rights. These include a performance-based bonus as well as the possibility of an additional payout of approximately €1.3m (£1.1m).
Internally, the corner is seen as a dual project. He is expected to not only contribute on the pitch, but also generate a significant transfer output in the future.
This explains the careful management of its development. The club wants him to fully integrate into the senior team in the near future, but without rushing the process.
what happens next
For his next move, the corner needs first-team minutes. Once that happens, the dynamics can change rapidly. Continued monitoring of Arsenal shows that they are preparing themselves early rather than waiting for a full breakout season and increased competition.
For Palmeiras, the strategy remains one of control and price protection. Yet the presence of a €100m (£86.5m) clause, coupled with continued Premier League interest, means this is a position that will continue to evolve.
Arsenal may have lost the first battle for the corner. However, the broader story is still very much open.
