One of the names that has highlighted its star quality at FC Barcelona so far in the 2024-25 season is undoubtedly Jules Koundé. And it's no wonder, as the 26-year-old Parisian defender has managed to establish himself as a right-back, despite it not being his natural position, and is gradually positioning himself as one of the best in the world in that role, demonstrating himself as an almost impenetrable right-sided defender defensively and constantly improving in his offensive contributions.
Given this, it's not surprising that several teams are interested in Koundé, closely monitoring his situation with the intention of making a possible offer in the upcoming summer transfer window. Rumors suggest that in the Premier League, both Chelsea and Liverpool have shown interest in his services in the past, and now a new English team seems to be joining the list.
The Premier League 'big' team interested in signing Jules Koundé
As reported by 'El Nacional.cat', Manchester United, a team currently undergoing a new cycle and sporting project led by Rúben Amorin as the coach, is reportedly interested in signing Jules Koundé as a 'top' reinforcement to strengthen both the right-back and central defense, especially the former position, where Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot currently share minutes.
According to the mentioned source, it is suggested that the 'Red Devils' could be preparing an offer of around €68 million, including fixed and variable amounts, to secure the services of Koundé in the upcoming summer. However, it seems that this proposal may not be well received by the sports management of FC Barcelona.
So far, Barça has no intention of letting go of Koundé, who has become a fundamental pillar for the team this 2024-25 season. Furthermore, the lack of stellar alternatives in the right-back position, with only Héctor Fort as a backup, reinforces Barcelona's stance of retaining the French player.
The only 'escape route' Barcelona would consider for letting go of Koundé
Therefore, it's no surprise that the Barcelona entity is showing complete inflexibility in allowing Jules Koundé to leave, demanding both Manchester United and all clubs interested in the Parisian defender to pay the player's release clause, which currently stands at €1000 million. A prohibitive amount that will undoubtedly deter the interest of any club in the defender whose current market value (according to 'Transfermarkt') is around €55 million.