After securing the signing of Andreas Christensen, albeit subject to confirmation, FC Barcelona have entered the market for yet another centre-back.
The board is clearly worried about the longevity of Gerard Pique and has identified Jules Kounde as their desired long-term replacement for the veteran centre-back.
Barcelona, though, have been dealt with major roadblocks in the pursuit of Kounde. Although they have a good relationship with Sevilla, funding a move for the defender could prove to be an issue.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano (h/t BarçaTimes) has offered an update on the saga, suggesting Barcelona’s interest in Kounde remains “serious”.
Despite the potential financial roadblocks, the club remain determined to snap up the Frenchman, who is rated highly by Xavi Hernandez and has been identified as the ideal long-term solution to the club’s defensive woes.
Romano claims Sevilla are expected to demand around €55-65 million for Kounde, as opposed to the earlier speculated fee of €80 million.
However, the Italian adds Chelsea are in the ascendancy in the race to sign Jules Kounde. The Blues were close to signing the youngster last summer, but the move broke down as Sevilla changed their demands at the last minute.
With the likes of Christensen, Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger set to depart in the summer, Chelsea will be desperate to sign Kounde this time around and are thus expected to match their demands.
The same cannot be said for Barcelona, who are currently in the middle of a financial muddle and must get rid of their unwanted stars before they can fund move to newer players this summer.
Follow our socials Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Google News.
