Liverpool identify Jules Kounde as defensive solution amid Barcelona uncertainty

Jules Kounde’s reduced role at Barcelona has made the France international a potential target for Liverpool, with a fee of about 70m euros reportedly enough to secure a deal.

Kounde, 27, was previously considered an important part of the Barcelona squad after joining from Sevilla for 50m euros in the summer of 2022. However, his status has changed under manager Hansi Flick and he has made only four La Liga appearances this season.

He has not featured in Barcelona’s past three league matches, remaining on the substitutes’ bench. Kounde has completed 90 minutes in La Liga only once this campaign, against Rayo Vallecano, while his other full match came in the Champions League against Feyenoord.

According to a Football Insider report carried by German newspaper Bild, Liverpool are interested in signing the defender. No formal negotiations have taken place, but a fee close to 70m euros could be sufficient for the Premier League club to complete the transfer.

Spanish newspaper Sport has also reported that Barcelona would only consider selling Kounde for a significant offer. Previous reports had suggested the club might accept a fee of about 50m euros. Kounde remains under contract at Barcelona until 2030.

Liverpool seek defensive cover

Liverpool are looking for a right-back, particularly with Conor Bradley potentially unavailable until next year. Jeremy Frimpong’s performances have reportedly failed to convince, while Ronald Araujo, who is on loan from Barcelona, is not a traditional right-back.

Joe Gomez could also leave Liverpool in the summer. Kounde’s ability to operate both at right-back and centre-back would therefore offer Arne Slot’s side defensive flexibility.

Liverpool are not the only English club monitoring the player. Sport reports that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City have also shown interest in Kounde. He has previously been informally linked with Bayern Munich.

The defender’s own position remains uncertain. Sport has reported that Kounde could consider a move in January as he looks for a change of surroundings. However, other reports claim he immediately rejected an enquiry from Liverpool and remains determined to win back his starting place under Flick.

Kounde was a regular for Barcelona for a considerable period after his move from Sevilla, but his limited involvement this season has raised questions over his future at the club. Any agreement would depend on Barcelona receiving the high-value offer it is believed to be seeking.