With the summer transfer window now open for business, Barcelona are looking to accelerate the pursuit of their desired targets.
Deals for Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen have been announced while work continues to be done to sign Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Another key target for manager Xavi Hernandez and Barcelona this summer is Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.
Given that Barça will be losing three centre-backs this summer in Oscar Mingueza, Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti, it makes sense for them to add another defender apart from Andreas Christensen.
And, Kounde has been the topmost priority for Xavi to bolster the position. However, Sevilla’s valuation and the interest from Chelsea have meant that the deal has not progressed.
But, journalist Gerard Romero is now claiming that Kounde really wants to move to Barcelona, with manager Xavi having already spoken with him three times this summer.
Romero himself reported earlier in the week that the 23-year-old French international had already agreed personal terms with the Blaugrana. And a transfer could be possible for a sum of around €55-60 million.
Barcelona, though, have been trying to lower the price tag by offering a player in exchange. There have been murmurs of including Sergino Dest or Memphis Depay as potential makeweights in the deal to convince Sevilla to part ways with Kounde for a lower fee.
Kounde has been one of the top-performing centre-halves in La Liga since joining Los Nervionenses from Bordeaux in 2019. The 23-year-old has exhibited great quality and has a high ceiling.
With the player reportedly keen on making a move to Camp Nou this summer and having already spoken with the Barcelona manager, it is now up to the two clubs to reach an agreement over the transfer fee