Barcelona have identified Tottenham Hotspur‘s Pedro Porro as a surprise option to replace Arsenal target Jules Koundé this summer.
Two days ago, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain that Arsenal appreciate Koundé, who can operate as a right-back and a centre-back. The Premier League winners are ready to make a move if he’s open to leaving Barcelona.
The 27-year-old France international’s agent, Jonathan Kebe, visited Barcelona’s offices yesterday. The La Liga winners are open to selling him and have identified the Tottenham star as an option.
Arsenal value Barcelona player
Gerard Romero’s Jijantes, relayed by Sport, covers Arsenal’s interest in the defender and Barcelona’s initial approach for Pedro Porro.
William Saliba and Jurriën Timber’s injuries could force the Gunners to improve their back line in the final weeks of the window.
Jules Koundé can provide cover for both positions, and Mikel Arteta believes he can be an ideal signing for Arsenal.
The Emirates club haven’t made advances yet to sign the Frenchman, who returned to training earlier this week.
Barca contact Tottenham man
The former Sevilla man is yet to decide on his future. He will hold talks with Hansi Flick to find out his plans and what role he has in it.
Barcelona’s sporting leaders are open to selling Jules Koundé if there is a tempting offer and he opens the exit door.
The La Liga winners seem to prepare for his exit and have identified Pedro Porro as a new target. According to Jijantes, they contacted the Tottenham Hotspur player’s agent to ask about his situation and the conditions needed to sign him.
The report states: ‘It is simply an initial inquiry at a time when Koundé’s situation could trigger a chain reaction of moves.’
Flick values the 26-year-old, who formed a great partnership with Barca’s Lamine Yamal at the World Cup. Porro isn’t a priority because Eric García and Xavi Espart are two other right-backs at the Camp Nou.
Even If Barca were to seriously make an attempt to sign Porro, Spurs are unlikely to let him leave.
In June, he signed a new contract until 2031, with an option for another year. This puts Tottenham in a comfortable position to reject any potential advances for the World Cup winner.
Key transfer points
Earlier this week, Arsenal showed interest in Koundé
Frenchman’s agent visited Barcelona on Wednesday
La Liga winners contact Pedro Porro’s agent
Tottenham unlikely to sell star, months after renewal
Sportwitness
Football transfer news from the across the world.