Jules Kounde has been at Barcelona since the summer of 2022. (Source: Getty)
Jules Kounde has been at Barcelona since the summer of 2022. (Source: Getty)
Barcelona are allegedly willing to cash in on star right-back Jules Kounde to earn a considerable amount of money before the 2026-27 season.
Kounde, 27, has established himself as one of the best right-sided full-backs in the world since joining the Catalans from Sevilla in July 2022. He has helped his team win two La Liga titles and four other trophies so far.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Football Espana), Barcelona are open to offloading the player this summer to raise funds for an expected squad reshuffle. They also feel they have great depth at right-back.
Furthermore, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City are all interested in signing Kounde in the upcoming summer transfer window. They could have to spend a fee between £52 million and £61 million to sign the star.
The former Bordeaux defender would emerge as a regular starter at Liverpool and Manchester City, with the likes of Jeremie Frimpong and Matheus Nunes regarded not better than him. However, he could be used as a centre-back at Chelsea, with captain Reece James considered an indispensable starter for the Stamford Bridge outfit.
Kounde, whose current contract will expire in June 2030, is reportedly very settled at Barcelona now. He has bagged 10 goals and laid out 22 assists in 181 matches across all competitions for Hansi Flick's side since arriving for an initial £42 million ahead of the 2022-23 season.
The Frenchman is currently nursing a muscle problem.
Pedri addresses Barcelona star's injury
During a recent media appearance, Barcelona midfielder Pedri was asked to opine on Raphinha's hamstring injury sustained during the international break. He replied (h/t Barca Universal):
"It's a sad situation for him or anyone to be injured, especially if they play for my team. But I can tell you: You can't play at half intensity. You're three times more likely to get injured. It's the worst thing you can do as a footballer. Sadly, injuries are part of football. If they have to happen, then they will."
Raphinha, who picked up his injury during Brazil's recent 2-1 loss to France, will be out of action up to six weeks. The 29-year-old's absence is expected to be covered by the likes of Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres.
So far this term, Raphinha has started 26 of his 31 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona. The ex-Leeds United forward has found the back of the net 19 times and registered eight assists for his side this season.