{"id":2023,"date":"2026-03-22T13:38:08","date_gmt":"2026-03-22T13:38:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/osport.com.ng\/?p=2023"},"modified":"2026-03-22T13:38:08","modified_gmt":"2026-03-22T13:38:08","slug":"arsenal-get-all-clear-to-sign-barcelona-star-jules-kounde-in-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/osport.com.ng\/?p=2023","title":{"rendered":"Arsenal get all clear to sign Barcelona star Jules Kounde in summer"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<p>Barcelona are prepared to listen to offers for defender Jules Kound\u00e9 this summer, according to reports in Spain, with Arsenal and Liverpool once again emerging as leading suitors for the versatile French international.<\/p>\n<p>According to Marca, the 27-year-old is no longer considered \u201cuntouchable\u201d at FC Barcelona, despite signing a long-term contract extension that runs until 2030. The club\u2019s willingness to consider bids marks a significant shift in stance, with reports suggesting Barcelona are open to reshaping their defensive options ahead of the 2026\u201327 campaign.<\/p>\n<p>Kound\u00e9 has been a regular since his arrival from Sevilla in 2022, but questions over his consistency and role\u2014often deployed at right-back rather than his preferred centre-back position\u2014have contributed to uncertainty over his long-term future. Barcelona are also believed to be exploring alternative defensive profiles, further fuelling speculation that a high-value sale could be sanctioned.<\/p>\n<p>Interest from the Premier League is longstanding. <em><strong>ARSENAL<\/strong><\/em>  famously attempted to sign Kound\u00e9 prior to his move to Spain and remain admirers, while Liverpool are also monitoring his situation closely as they look to strengthen their defensive unit. Reports in England have even suggested Liverpool could be willing to table a significant offer, potentially in excess of \u20ac80 million, to secure his services.<\/p>\n<p>Financial considerations may also play a role in Barcelona\u2019s thinking. The club\u2019s well-documented economic pressures mean player sales remain a key tool in balancing the books, and Kound\u00e9\u2014valued at around \u00a350\u201370 million\u2014represents one of their most marketable defensive assets.<\/p>\n<p>Opinion: Could a Premier League move happen?<\/p>\n<p>A move to England appears increasingly plausible, though not without complications. Kound\u00e9 has previously shown a preference for Barcelona, turning down Premier League interest in the past, and remains under a long-term deal that gives the club strong negotiating power.<\/p>\n<p>However, the current situation feels different. If Barcelona actively seek a sale, the balance of power could shift toward interested buyers. <em><strong>ARSENAL<\/strong><\/em>  interest in adding to that back-line and Liverpool\u2019s ongoing backline evolution both create logical landing spots.<\/p>\n<p>From a stylistic perspective, Kound\u00e9\u2019s athleticism and versatility would suit the intensity of the Premier League. His ability to operate as both a centre-back and right-back makes him particularly attractive to clubs seeking tactical flexibility.<\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, much will depend on Barcelona\u2019s asking price and Kound\u00e9\u2019s own ambitions. If regular deployment in his preferred central role is a priority, a move to England\u2014where he could be a cornerstone defender\u2014may hold growing appeal.<\/p>\n<p>With the summer window approaching, Kound\u00e9\u2019s future is shaping into one of the more intriguing transfer stories, with the Premier League firmly positioned as a realistic destination.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>MORE ARSENAL NEWS AND GOSSIP \u2013 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Latest: <strong>\u00a3350k-a-week German set to make sensational return to Premier League with Arsenal? Summer decision made<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Most Read:\u00a0Premier League boss opens up on future of \u00a3100M star Mikel Arteta wants at Arsenal<\/p>\n<p>Must Check Out: <strong>Arsenal star \u2018taking the p**s\u2019 out of rivals \u2013 Gunners fans told if \u00a3160M signing coming \u2013 President tips Spaniard for Arsenal move<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>LOVE ARSENAL? 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