Jules Kounde is reportedly considering leaving Barcelona in the summer transfer window, with Chelsea interested in signing him.
According to reputed Spanish journalist Toni Juanmarti, Jules Kounde is not comfortable playing as a right-back. That is why he is contemplating leaving Barcelona in the summer transfer window. And a separate report has claimed that the 24-year-old is the subject of interest from Chelsea.
Jules Kounde joined Barcelona from Sevilla last summer and has been a pivotal figure for them this season. The French international already had three years of experience in La Liga with Sevilla. And he took no time to establish a foothold in the Barcelona first team, albeit as a right-back.
With the Barcelona squad not having a reliable right-back, Xavi has utilised Kounde as a makeshift right-back. And the 24-year-old has chipped in with one goal and six assists in 38 appearances thus far for Barcelona. But the Frenchman is frustrated as he wants to play as a centre-back. And if the situation does not change, he might consider leaving this summer.
Kounde has already told Xavi about his grievance while informing Barcelona to consider offers that any suitor presents. And Adria Albets has suggested that the Blaugrana will not rule out an exit. And that stance is hardly surprising, considering Barcelona’s never-ending financial woes.
The Catalan giants are under mounting debt and need to balance their books before signing players this summer. So if push comes to shove, Kounde’s departure from Barcelona might be possible. Meanwhile, a report by SPORT claims that the 24-year-old is a target for Chelsea.
Chelsea wanted to sign Kounde last summer, but a move never materialised. However, with a departure possible, the Blues are ready to rekindle their interest in the 24-year-old Barcelona defender. And with Thiago Silva in the twilight of his career, Chelsea can do with a long-term successor.
Also Read: Back on top: How did Barcelona conquer La Liga this season?
Kounde’s ability to play as a right-back should also help, considering Reece James has been injury-prone this season. And it will be interesting to see if Chelsea can convince Barcelona to part ways with the French international. For now, the 24-year-old is considering departing from Spotify Camp Nou this year.
