“We demand for more….” Barcelona manager Hansi Flick issued a FOUR word response to Arsenal’s Sporting Director Edu Gasper for his approach to sign Jules Kounde
“We demand for more….” Barcelona manager Hansi Flick issued a FOUR word response to Arsenal’s approach for Jules Kounde
TRANSFER NEWSBarcelona responds to Arsenal’s approach for Jules Kounde
Barcelona have reportedly responded to Arsenal’s transfer approach for defender Jules Kounde this summer
Barcelona have turned down Arsenal’s initial approach for defender Jules Kounde, according to reports from Spain. Kounde, who joined Barcelona from Sevilla two years ago for €50 million (£41.8 million), has just completed his second season with the La Liga giants.
The 25-year-old versatile defender, capable of playing both centre-back and right-back, primarily featured on the right side of Barcelona’s defence last season. He has continued to play in that position for France during their three group games at Euro 2024.
Jijantes reported that Arsenal inquired about Kounde’s availability this summer, but Barcelona are not actively looking to sell the French international. Jijantes host, Gerard Romero said, “Barca have told them he is not going to leave at the moment and for Jules Kounde to leave, it would take a high offer.”
Romero added, “They have told Arsenal they are waiting for Ronald Araujo and it depends on what happens with him. I have a lot of doubts about selling Jules. I agree in the end you can’t sell both, you have to sell one or the other.”
Kounde’s contract includes a €1 billion (£837 million) release clause, meaning Arsenal would need to negotiate a transfer fee
Currently, Arsenal’s right-back position is well-covered by Ben White, Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu. However, the left-back options are less dependable, with Oleksandr Zinchenko struggling with form and Jakub Kiwior being more suited to central defence.
Although Kounde could be a valuable addition as a centre-back, his high price tag may not be justifiable given the strong competition from William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes for starting positions.
Kounde has previously attracted interest from Premier League clubs, with Chelsea nearly securing his transfer during his time at Sevilla. Instead, he opted for Barcelona, where he has delivered solid performances for the Catalan club.
