Chelsea target Barcelona defender Jules Kounde

Jules Kounde’s future at Barcelona has become uncertain after the French defender lost his starting place in recent weeks.

Despite having a contract with the Catalan club until 2030, the 27-year-old is attracting serious attention from Chelsea and Bayern Munich.

Kounde had been a regular presence for Barcelona over several seasons, but Eric Garcia has now started ahead of him at right-back in three consecutive matches. Hansi Flick’s preference has raised questions about Kounde’s standing and could encourage the club to consider a major transfer as early as January.

Chelsea are reportedly particularly interested. TeamTalk claims manager Xabi Alonso admires Koundé’s pace, experience and tactical flexibility. The Frenchman could fit naturally as the right-sided centre-back in Alonso’s three-man defensive system at Stamford Bridge.

A move would depend on whether Kounde wants to leave Barcelona and take on a new challenge in the Premier League. Liverpool have also reportedly asked about his situation, although the Reds do not consider him a priority. They would view him primarily as a right-back rather than a central defender.

With several clubs monitoring him, Koundé’s reduced role has created a transfer story to watch closely.