Liverpool vs. Barça: battle to cover a sensitive absence at Anfield

FC Barcelona could soon receive an offer for Jules Koundé. Recent reports indicate Liverpool's interest in the 26-year-old defender, to cover the possible departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold. The English full-back is also on the radar of Barça and Real Madrid, as since last Wednesday he has total freedom to sign as a free agent next summer.

For Barça, however, the future of the Parisian is not in doubt for the moment. The '23' has a contract until 2027 and his release clause is 1 billion euros. In the 2024-25 season, the Frenchman has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the world, playing (2,127') in the 26 matches played this season, with 1 goal and 6 assists.

The offer with which Liverpool will try to sign Koundé in the summer

According to information leaked by 'Daily Mail', the 'reds' are willing to put up to 70 million euros on the table for Koundé if, in the end, Alexander-Arnold decides to leave at the end of the season. In fact, Liverpool's interest in the French international is not new, as they also explored the possibility of signing him in 2023 and 2024.

Additionally, the Barça defender would also be an ideal replacement for Virgil van Dijk, who has also not resolved his continuity at Anfield, although Liverpool's management is much more confident regarding his stay. The Dutchman is the second highest-paid player in the squad, behind Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian also ends his contract on June 30, which is why the club's concern is at its highest regarding the construction of the squad for the 2025-26 season.

The Merseyside team is having an impeccable season under Arne Slot, leading the Premier League and the Champions League with only one defeat throughout the course. If one or more key players decide to leave, they will undoubtedly go all out in the summer to cover their absences. For Barça, for now, the only threat from Anfield Road points to Jules.