Jules Kounde has reportedly viewed as a possible successor to Sergio Ramos by Real Madrid, who are preparing a succession plan for their captain.
As reported by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid are preparing for life after Sergio Ramos amid rising uncertainty over the future of their captain. To that end, Jules Kounde is viewed as one of the options to succeed the veteran Spaniard, with the Frenchman being Zinedine Zidane’s favoured candidate.
Kounde has seen his career hit new heights since joining Sevilla from Bordeaux in the summer of 2019. Over the past 18 months or so, the Frenchman has seen his stock rise substantially, having taken no time to become a mainstay at the back for Los Nervionenses and playing a key role in their UEFA Europa League triumph last season.
This season, the 22-year-old has continued to go from strength to strength, turning out 20 times for Sevilla thus far, missing just one game when fit and available. His progress has been duly noted by some of the biggest clubs in the world, none more so than the reigning La Liga champions Real Madrid.
Real Madrid could be forced to enter the transfer market for a centre-back soon, with a summer push likely if Sergio Ramos chooses not to put pen to paper on a new contract. With the Spanish international’s current deal expiring at the end of the season, Los Blancos’ precarious situation is clear.
As a result, Real Madrid have been linked with a number of centre-backs, with Pau Torres among those that are on their radar. Apart from the Villarreal defender, the versatile David Alaba is also believed to be a priority target for Real Madrid, although it is unclear which position he would fill in at, with Marcelo’s future also uncertain.
Now, though, it looks like Torres is one of many options being considered, with another one of those being Jules Kounde. As per the report, Zinedine Zidane favours a move for his compatriot and with Sevilla being burdened financially due to the effects of the coronavirus, it is suggested that they could be forced to cash in on Kounde, who is also reportedly a target for Manchester United.
Kounde, like Torres, is also accustomed to the demands of La Liga and might not take too long to get settled in at Real Madrid. With Eder Militao struggling to impress Zidane, the Frenchman might just have a chance to nail down a regular berth, should Ramos end up leaving. For now, he seems to be a viable target and it remains to be seen if Real Madrid make a move for him soon.