After securing the signing of Andreas Christensen, although subject to confirmation, FC Barcelona have entered the market for another centre-back.
The board are clearly concerned about Gerard Pique’s longevity and have identified Jules Kounde as his desired long-term replacement for the veteran centre-back.
Barcelona, however, faced major hurdles in the pursuit of Koundé. Although they have a good relationship with Sevilla, funding a move for the defender could prove to be a problem.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano (h/t BarcaTimes) offered an update on the saga, suggesting that Barcelona’s interest in Koundé remains ‘serious’.
Despite the potential financial hurdles, the club remain committed to signing the Frenchman, who is highly rated by Xavi Hernandez and has been identified as the ideal long-term solution to the club’s defensive problems.
Romano claims Sevilla are expected to demand around €55-65m for Kounde as opposed to the previously speculated fee of €80m.
However, the Italian adds that Chelsea are ahead in the race to sign Jules Kounde. The Blues were close to signing the youngster last summer but the move fell through as Sevilla changed their demands at the last minute.
With Christensen, Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger leaving this summer, Chelsea will be desperate to sign Kounde this time around and should therefore meet their demands.
The same can’t be said for Barcelona, who are currently in the midst of a financial mess and need to get rid of their unwanted stars before they can fund the transfer to new players this summer.
