Arsenal have suffered a blow in their pursuit of Barcelona defender Jules Kounde as Hansi Flick considers him an integral part of his plans.
Jules Kounde’s future at Barcelona has been the talk of the town for a long time. Despite his consistent performances, multiple reports have linked him with a move away because of Barcelona’s financial struggles. But, according to a report from SPORT, the French international is considered to be an integral part of Hansi Flick’s plans.
Kounde arrived at Barcelona in the summer of 2022 after proving himself in the Spanish top flight with Sevilla. He has done an excellent job at the back both as a right-back as well as in his preferred position in the heart of the defence.
Last season, he was involved in 48 matches and he even contributed towards six goals. While Barcelona did not have the best of seasons, he was one of their consistent performers. Kounde had an exceptional Euro 2024 campaign with France as he was arguably their best player in the tournament.
Kounde important to Flick’s plans
While he is currently on holiday, Barcelona’s new manager Hansi Flick eagerly awaits his arrival as he considers him to be a vital part of his plans going ahead. Multiple reports have linked him with a move away from the club this summer because of the amount of interest in him and the Catalan giants’ need to raise funds.
Arsenal are one of the clubs that are interested in the versatile defender. Mikel Arteta wants to further strengthen his rotation at the back. Kounde’s arrival will add a lot of competition for a place in the starting XI, and he will also give them a more attacking option at right-back.
While he seems to be a great fit for Mikel Arteta, who would love to have him at his disposal, the Gunners are unlikely to get their hands on the 25-year-old because Barcelona’s current situation makes him a very important player for them.
Ronaldo Araujo is sidelined for four months after undergoing surgery. Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia have been called up for the Olympics. Inigo Martinez is yet to be registered for the upcoming La Liga campaign. As a result, they need Kounde to be around at all costs. While Flick wanted to use him as a right-back, the current situation suggests he will be starting the season in the heart of the defence.
