Barcelona will demand €60 million to sell Jules Kounde this summer, with Aston Villa and Manchester United keen on signing him.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Aston Villa and Manchester United are interested in Jules Kounde. The two Premier League clubs are keen on reinforcing their defensive units by signing a versatile defender in the summer transfer window. So, the 27-year-old Barcelona mainstay has emerged as a target.
The latest update has brought good news for Aston Villa and Manchester United, as the newly-crowned La Liga champions are ready to sell the Frenchman in the upcoming transfer window. The Blaugrana will demand around €60 million to part ways with Kounde in the coming months.
How has Jules Kounde fared at Barcelona?
Jules Kounde has transformed into one of the world’s best right-backs since joining Barcelona from Sevilla in July 2022, despite being a centre-back during his stint with the Andalusian club. The 27-year-old has made exponential progress in the last four seasons, even though he has not played in his preferred position during this period. He has also become the first-choice right-back for France.
The French international has made nearly 200 appearances for Barcelona thus far while chipping in with ten goals and 22 assists. However, Kounde’s long-term future at Spotify Camp Nou is uncertain, as his form has wavered this season. The inconsistent run has not affected his stock, as Aston Villa and Manchester United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Premier League adventure on the horizon?
Aston Villa’s interest in Jules Kounde is understandable. The Villans are scouring the market for a centre-back and a right-back as they prepare to return to the UEFA Champions League. While Matty Cash has been solid for the West Midlands outfit, they need an upgrade on the Polish international. Meanwhile, recent reports have claimed that Tyrone Mings may leave Aston Villa this summer, leading the club to seek a centre-back solution.
As for Manchester United, the Red Devils hold a long-standing interest in Kounde. With Harry Maguire entering the final six months of his contract, Manchester United must plan for life after the experienced English defender. So, Kounde is a viable target. Additionally, the 27-year-old Frenchman can be a long-term right-back solution for the Premier League club.
The latest report has revealed Barcelona may cash in on Kounde for a fee of around €80 million in the summer transfer window. The update has boosted the prospects of Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United. It will be interesting to see if the three Premier League clubs are ready to pay €80 million to sign the French international from Barcelona in the coming months.