Manchester City are prepared ot pay €50 million and test Barcelona’s resolve on Jules Kounde ahead of the summer window.
According to Fichajes, Jules Kounde is emerging as a target for Manchester City as Pep Guardiola’s side are reportedly willing to pay €50 million for the Frenchman. The Barcelona star is valued much higher by the Spanish giants, with Liverpool and Chelsea are also seemingly keeping tabs.
Manchester City are expected to bring in a top-notch right back for their squad, with their current options not performing at the right level. For instance, the club refrained from selling Rico Lewis back in the summer, but they could change their stance on the academy graduate.
There are a few names being mentioned, with Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento seen as a top target. There are obvious complications in signing the Magpies’ star, especially how much he will cost in the current market.
They have also kept some alternative targets in mind, with Barcelona’s Jules Kounde one of those prominently featured on their list. Manchester City held an interest in the Frenchman last summer, but did not make a move, and now, they are prepared to fork out €50 million for the 27-year-old.
The Catalans are aware of other interested clubs in the defender, with Chelsea holding long-term admiration, while Liverpool have also considered him as an option. The two Premier League giants are eager to strengthen their backline and could enter the race for Kounde.
Barcelona to demand a high price for Kounde?
Barcelona might be open to selling Kounde, but for their price, which is set at €80 million. Manchester City’s willingness to pay €50 million may not be enough to convince the Catalans to part ways with a player who is considered extremely important by Hansi Flick.
Whether that would suit Manchester City’s finances remains to be seen, but signing the €80 million-rated Barcelona defender would be a big coup for Guardiola. For now, it will be interesting to watch if Kounde makes his exit from the Catalan side. While he is happy with life in Spain, a move to the Premier League might be enticing enough for his career.
