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Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is unlikely to join Man Utd this summer, according to reports.
TEAMtalk claim that the Red Devils were “contacted” by intermediaries who have been informing teams about the Frenchman’s availability.
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Kounde was a regular starter for Barca last season, but the La Liga champions are hoping to cash in so they can use the funds for new signings.
The Catalan club are said to be demanding “in excess of” €50m (£43m) for the 27-year-old, but United are not interested.
Michael Carrick’s side are prioritising reinforcements in midfield, but if they do strengthen the defence, they are expected to recruit a left-back.
Kounde could still end up playing in the Premier League
With Barcelona touting the player around Europe, it would not be a complete surprise if the France international signs for one of United’s rivals.
Chelsea have an historic interest in Kounde, having tried to sign him several times before he made the move to the Camp Nou in 2022.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are looking for a player like Kounde, who can do a job both as a right-back and as a centre-half.
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Man Utd are looking at left-backs.
Carrick has limited options on the left-hand side of defence. Tyrell Malacia has now left Old Trafford after his contract expired, so Luke Shaw does not have a lot of competition for his starting place.
Noussair Mazraoui is someone who can provide cover if needed, but he is more comfortable on the right. That is why Director of Football Jason Wilcox and Head of Recruitment Christopher Vivell have drawn up a shortlist of targets.
Newcastle’s Lewis Hall is seen as the top option, but there are serious doubts over whether the Magpies would let him leave, especially after offloading other key players such as Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali.
Nathaniel Brown was also under consideration, but he has since joined Bayern Munich. Kounde’s teammate, Alejandro Balde, is believed to be of interest to United, but Barca would only sanction his sale if they can bring in a replacement.
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