As the summer transfer window looms, one of Barcelona’s most consistent performers is a top target for a leading Premier League club, it has been alleged.
The defender, who has been a regular in Hansi Flick’s side this term, is prized for his versatility, his temperament, and his ability to play both as a right-back and at centre-back.
While Barcelona would not wish to lose key players, financial pressures could force them to sell for massive sums.
According to Fichajes, a bid of around €80 million will be submitted by Chelsea to test the resolve of Barcelona for Jules Kounde.
The prospective buyer lost the player by a hair’s breadth two years ago and believes now that they will be in a better position to get his signature.
Having a clear game plan in place to win over the club and the player, the transfer can accelerate in the next few weeks.
Chelsea seems to be leading the charge in this transfer pursuit, with the Blues seeking to bolster their defensive ranks before the new campaign.
Although the 26-year-old has been instrumental at Barcelona, the Catalan club’s financial plight might force them to have no option but to accept a record bid.
A sale for €80 million would be a colossal profit, having signed him for €50 million from Sevilla in 2022.
The French international’s ability to play in different positions in the back is a huge advantage to Chelsea, which has not been able to solidify their backline.
With doubts raised about the long-term sufficiency of their current centre-backs, the Blues view him as a huge upgrade.
Arsenal have also been spoken of, but their defensive cover makes it not as much of a priority.
For the player, the choice will be one of whether he prefers stability at Barcelona or a challenge in the Premier League.
Chelsea, being eager to make it happen, this transfer drama may well be one of the most interesting of the summer.
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