Barcelona have made the decision to sell at least two centre-backs in the summer transfer window in order to raise money.
As it stands, Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez, and Pau Cubarsi make up the Blaugrana’s five central defenders. In addition, Eric Garcia and Clement Lenglet will be coming back from their loan terms.
Lenglet and Garcia will undoubtedly leave again, preferably on permanent deals, although Barcelona may decide to pursue more moves since additional funding would be required.
Chelsea and Man United want Kounde
Jules Kounde appears to have no shortage of admirers, as two Premier League heavyweights, Chelsea and Manchester United, are reportedly highly interested in signing him, according to SPORT.
The 25-year-old’s performances at right-back have improved recently, although he has not played regularly enough this season.
Chelsea, who reportedly scouted Kounde during a game last month, are interested in signing him again after their failed attempt to recruit him before he joined Barcelona in 2022.
Man United are looking to make new signings, preferably in defense, as the future of centre-back Raphael Varane is uncertain at the club and the Frenchman could be replaced by his compatriot Kounde.
Kounde’s future lies away from Camp Nou
Barcelona’s situation may be much eased if the former Sevilla defender, whose current market value is estimated to be €60 million, is amenable to offers.
In the summer, the Catalans are anticipated to be quite busy, and it will be fascinating to see if Kounde’s departure is part of that activity.
Whether Kounde joins the Premier League or not, one thing is looking certain that he is likely to leave Barcelona at the end of the season.