EXCLUSIVE: Barcelona set cut-price for Kounde as Man Utd register interest

Steve Kay

• Updated: 29 May 2024 22:05 BST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Manchester United are interested in signing Barcelona defender Jules Kounde who is open to leaving the Nou Camp, FootballTransfers can reveal.

We are told that Ineos aim to bring in a centre-back who can also play at right-back when needed, and they feel that Kounde fits this requirement perfectly, while Jarrad Branthwaite is also a top target for the Premier League giants.

Source have indicated that Barcelona, who are in need of funds, are willing to sell Kounde this summer if the right fee of around €50 million is offered, while the Frenchman is also open to leaving the Nou Camp.

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The French international has had a challenging season at Barcelona and is unhappy playing exclusively as a right-back, despite former coach Xavi's persuasion to play there.

Kounde is primarily a right-sided central defender, but his agility, athleticism, and technical skill also make him effective on the flank - and it is this variety that Man Utd are particularly keen on.

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When is Jules Kounde's contract at Barcelona up?

The 25-year-old is out of contract at Barcelona in 2027. He has played 88 games for the Catalan club since arriving from Sevilla two years ago.

It's thought that Barcelona, who recently announced Hansi Flick as their new coach, are well stocked in defence, with Ronald Araujo, Inigo Martinez, Pau Cubarsi and Andreas Christensen at the club, while their financial difficulties may seem they forced to move squad members on.