BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 9: Jules Koundé of FC Barcelonaa seen during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between FC Barcelona and Feyenoord Rotterdam at Camp Nou on September 9, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Luis Mazariegos Luis Mazariegos has been a lead writer and editor for Barca Blaugranes since 2012, bringing tactical analysis, transfer reports, opinion columns, and investigative coverage to the SB Nation network. An award-winning journalist, he has held press credentials for Champions League and La Liga fixtures – reporting live from the stadium, press box, and press conferences. He frequently provides commentary as a guest on football podcasts and radio shows. In addition to his sports media work, Luis spent over a decade in broadcast television and currently serves as an editor for a major digital news network.
Chelsea FC are said to be on the hunt for a long-term target, who initially turned them down to join FC Barcelona in 2022. A new report says the Blues are looking at signing Jules Koundé to reinforce their defense. Barça, for their part, may be interested in selling players to raise funds in January.
Koundé is no longer a guaranteed starter, competing with Eric Garcia, João Cancelo, and Xavi Espart in the full-back positions. The Frenchman is reportedly open to a move to London, to join a team he almost joined four years ago.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to want more cover at right-back, especially as Malo Gusto could leave.
All of these signs could point to a transfer, though, of course, there’s a long road ahead to an agreement if all parties do indeed decide to pursue such a thing.
Koundé is currently with France, where he is dealing with more frustration over playing time, or lack of it. Since starting the match against Turkiye, Koundé has not featured for Zinedine Zidane.
He has a contract with Barcelona until 2027, signed last year. He signed from Sevilla for 50 million euro.