Barcelona step up Pedro Porro interest as Jules Kounde’s future comes under scrutiny

Barcelona have begun planning for a possible reshaping of their defence by opening contact with Pedro Porro’s representatives, with the Tottenham full-back emerging as a potential replacement should Jules Kounde leave the Catalan club.

The Spanish side’s early approach comes as Arsenal continue to show interest in Kounde, creating uncertainty over the France international’s long-term future at Barcelona. Although Kounde has not indicated that he wants to depart, the club are taking precautions in case the situation changes during the summer transfer window.

According to Spanish reports cited by Metro, Barcelona have made contact with people close to Porro to assess whether a move could be possible. The club are understood to have presented an initial proposal to his agents.

Journalist Gerard Romero said on his YouTube channel that Barcelona had intensified their discussions with Porro’s representatives in recent days. The reported approach represents an early step by the club as they consider how best to strengthen their defensive options.

Kounde remains at Barcelona for now and has not expressed a desire to leave. However, his future has yet to be fully settled, prompting the club to explore alternatives before the transfer window opens.

Porro, 26, has established himself as one of Tottenham’s standout performers and has played a prominent role for the Premier League club. He has also been a regular starter for Spain during their campaign to win the most recent World Cup, according to the report.

The Spanish defender is under contract with Tottenham until 2031 after signing an extension in June. His current deal places him firmly within the club’s long-term plans, while he also has the backing of Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi.

De Zerbi has described Porro as an important player who can influence matches at both ends of the pitch. That versatility is understood to be one of the reasons Barcelona are interested in him.

Barcelona’s need for defensive cover is linked to the possibility of Kounde’s departure. Porro’s ability to operate in more than one role across the back line would give the club an option capable of fitting a number of tactical demands.

For the moment, there has been no indication that Kounde is actively seeking a move away from Barcelona. The club’s contact with Porro’s camp therefore reflects preparation rather than confirmation of an imminent transfer.

Nevertheless, Barcelona’s reported opening offer to the player’s agents shows that they are already considering their next move. With Arsenal monitoring Kounde and Porro tied to Tottenham until 2031, any deal would depend on developments involving both defenders and their current clubs.