Chelsea and Barcelona’s summer transfer plans could fall hand-in-hand, as the Spanish giants consider selling a long-term Stamford Bridge target amid interest in Marc Cucurella.
Marc Cucurella was one of the Chelsea players caught off guard by the departure of manager Enzo Maresca, who publicly criticised the club’s hierarchy and recruitment strategy.
Funny enough, Cucurella is now pushing to leave Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea’s leadership prepared to sanction an exit if their valuation is met.
Barcelona have emerged as a prominent suitor, with sporting director Deco making contact with the defender’s camp to explore a potential return. However, a move to Catalonia depends heavily on Barcelona offloading a high-value defender first.
Now, this is where things could work in Chelsea’s favour.
What is Xabi Alonso’s number one priority as soon as he walks through those doors?🤔
Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Barcelona are considering selling Jules Kounde
Writing for The Athletic, Mario Cortegana has claimed that Barcelona are considering selling Jules Kounde this summer.
Jules Kounde appeared 46 times to help Barcelona secure the La Liga title. Despite his heavy involvement, a few inconsistent moments have left club officials willing to evaluate summer offers.
Chelsea’s long-term interest in Kounde dates back to his Sevilla days in 2022, when Barcelona narrowly beat them to his signature.
The Blues have consistently kept tabs on his versatility at right-back and center-back ever since.
DISCUSS: Jarrod Bowen is a better signing than Rafael Leao…
Chelsea have been linked with both this summer.
Chelsea can finally sign Jules Kounde
Chelsea should push strongly to include Jules Kounde in any deal with Barcelona for Marc Cucurella to address multiple tactical headaches.
With Cucurella actively angling for a move back to Spain, Chelsea holds significant leverage over a Barcelona side that is in some financial bother of their own. By executing a player-plus-cash or swap proposal, the Blues can finally land their long-term target.
Kounde’s versatility makes him the ideal acquisition for Xabi Alonso’s system. He effortlessly transitions between a right-sided centre-back and a modern right-back, which would provide coverage and competition for an injury-prone Reece James and Malo Gusto.
Furthermore, Kounde has experience at the highest level, he’s press-resistant and has the ability to play a line-breaking pass.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox