Transfer Centre

Manchester United, Chelsea 'to battle for Jules Kounde'

By Ben Sully | 13 March 2024

Man United, Chelsea 'to battle for Jules Kounde'

Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly showing an interest in signing Barcelona defender Jules Kounde in the summer transfer window.

Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly set to battle for the signature of Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.

The Catalan giants may have to make some tough decisions if they are to bring in reinforcements in the summer transfer window.

Barcelona are keen to make Joao Cancelo's loan move permanent or sign an alternative full-back, while a new midfielder and winger are also believed to be on the wishlist.

However, with their economic situation proving to be a hindrance, Barcelona will need to raise funds before they can strengthen their squad.

Kounde is said to be among those who could be sold despite the fact that he is currently a regular fixture in the Barcelona lineup.

FC Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski celebrates scoring their first goal with Jules Kounde on December 10, 2023 © Reuters

According to Sport, Premier League giants Man United and Chelsea are both showing an interest in the France international.

Kounde is under contract until June 2027 and is likely to command a significant transfer fee despite Barcelona's lack of funds.

Man United are expected to bolster their central defensive options, with Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane out of contract in the summer.

Chelsea's Thiago Silva is also in the final few months of his deal and is set to leave the club at the end of the season.

As a result, the Blues are likely to be in the market for a new centre-back and could renew their interest in Kounde after losing out to Barcelona in the race to secure his signature in the summer of 2022.

Barcelona's Jules Kounde celebrates scoring against Espanyol on May 14, 2023 © Reuters

While Kounde is on the radar of at least two Premier League clubs, he is still keen to continue his career with the Blaugrana.

However, Barcelona are well-stocked in the centre of defence following the emergence of academy product Pau Cubarsi, and they are open to the prospect of offloading some of their defenders.

With Barcelona seemingly keen to retain Ronald Araujo's services, that leaves Kounde, Andreas Christensen and Inigo Martinez among the potential candidates for a sale.

Eric Garcia and Clement Lenglet are likely to be sold when they return from their loan spells, while it remains to be seen what the future holds for Chadi Riad once he completes his loan period with Real Betis.