4
Manchester United are set to face intense competition from four other European heavyweights in the race to sign Barcelona star and reported club defensive target Jules Kounde.
It’s been widely mentioned that securing defensive reinforcements is one of United’s highest priorities ahead of the summer transfer window.
United have been linked with multiple players including Barca’s Kounde.
A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Frenchman has his admirers at Old Trafford. His main point of attraction lies in his versatility. In addition to playing as a centre-back, Kounde can also be deployed in the right-back position to great effect.
It was previously stated that Barcelona, whose financial troubles have been well-documented, would entertain offers for Kounde.
According to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, the Red Devils will have to ward off competition from Chelsea, Newcastle, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan in their pursuit of Kounde.
It’s understood that Barca recognise they must get rid of a central defender when the summer window opens and Kounde is one of the players they’re thinking about parting ways with.
Mundo Deportivo note, “The Frenchman is highly valued internationally, although he is not playing in his usual position but as a right back. To the already known interest of Chelsea, PSG and Manchester United, in Italy, they now add Inter Milan and in England Newcastle.”
On his part, Kounde wishes to remain at Camp Nou and carry on with the Catalan giants but various intermediaries are reaching out to his employers to express the interest of clubs willing to add the player to their ranks.
Kounde has been a pivotal part of Xavi’s plans this term. The 25-year-old has made 44 appearances across all competitions. In that time, he has helped his side keep 16 clean sheets. He has also registered two goals.
This is not the first time United have tried luring Kounde to Old Trafford. A few years ago, they tried to secure his services from Sevilla but he ended up joining Barcelona in the summer of 2022 in a €55 million deal.
His deal with Barca expires in 2027.