Jules Koundé has once again become one of the most frequently mentioned names in Barcelona's offices. The French defender has spent several transfer windows being tempted by European giants, and this summer has been no exception. Despite his consistency and growth, the interest in signing him has multiplied in recent weeks.
Very serious proposals have arrived from England from two clubs that have been following him for years. Liverpool and Manchester City have approached his camp, willing to exceed €70 million. Meanwhile, PSG has also positioned itself strongly, seeing Koundé as the ideal replacement for Marquinhos.
In all cases, the contacts have been real and constant, with very attractive figures for both Barça and the player. The top-level defender market is skyrocketing, and Koundé is a highly sought-after profile due to his versatility and tactical reliability. Barça's sporting management, however, hasn't put him on the market.
Silent protagonist of Flick's project
Since Hansi Flick's arrival, Koundé's role has gained value within the defensive scheme. The German considers him a pillar in the center or on the flank, due to his anticipation and leadership skills. Although there were doubts in his first season, he has now established himself as one of the most reliable names.
Deco has been clear in all conversations held with interested clubs: no offers will be heard this summer. The priority is to keep the starters and not weaken areas where there are no top-level replacements. The club understands that, in this economic context, letting go of key pieces would be a mistake.
Moreover, the relationship between the player and the club is excellent, something that wasn't always the case in the past. There were periods when his fit and even his motivation were questioned, but now the scenario is different. Koundé has found stability, prominence, and full trust from the coaching staff.
A rain of million-dollar offers
In recent days, Koundé's camp has received multiple calls from England, France, and even Saudi Arabia. The asking price being discussed in the offices is around €70 million, a figure that several clubs would be willing to pay. It's a market value consistent with his performance and age.
PSG, in particular, has pushed hard, and it hasn't been the only team willing to sign him right away. City even considered including a player in the deal, while Liverpool had set aside a budget just for him. Koundé's agents have conveyed all this growing interest to the sporting management.
Despite all that outside noise, the French center-back hasn't shown any intention of forcing a departure. His behavior has been exemplary since the start of preseason, with no distractions or unfortunate statements. The footballer wants to focus on the sporting side and show why he deserves to remain undisputed.
Decision made by both sides
With all the ingredients for it to become a soap opera, Jules Koundé has decided to cut to the chase. He has grown tired of the market, the offers, and the speculation: he already has a new team. That team is none other than Barcelona, where he will stay for at least one more season.
The decision has been made jointly with the club, satisfied with his performance and quiet leadership. There is no intention to sell him either this summer or in the short term, except for an astronomical offer. For now, a departure is completely unfeasible: Koundé is staying and Flick is celebrating having him as one of his untouchables.