The imminent arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid has shaken up the transfer market. The English full-back, whose contract with Liverpool is ending, has reportedly decided not to renew and to join the white team as a free agent. A top-level reinforcement for the eternal rival, which not only strengthens them but could cause unwanted side effects at Camp Nou.
Meanwhile, the void that Alexander-Arnold will leave at Anfield has forced Liverpool to seek reliable alternatives for their right flank. The English club has already started moving in the market, and one of the names that has strongly appeared on their agenda is that of a Barça star. An interest that could certainly strain the present and immediate future of Hansi Flick's team.
An Unexpected Target
According to the latest information circulating around the Catalan club, Jules Koundé is attracting the attention of Liverpool's sports management. The Frenchman has established himself this season as a key piece in Barça's defense, and his performance has not gone unnoticed. Koundé's versatile profile is precisely what most appeals to Liverpool, who see him as an ideal replacement for Alexander-Arnold.
Koundé's camp assures that the player is comfortable in Barcelona and is not considering a change of scenery at the moment. However, the economic factor could alter the landscape. If an offer exceeding 60 million euros comes from England, the pressure on Barça's sports management will increase.
Flick Stands Firm Against the Rumors
With a still delicate financial situation, selling a well-valued player could be seen as a tempting solution. But Hansi Flick is clear: Koundé is not for sale under any circumstances. The German coach considers the former Sevilla player as one of the pillars of his new project, and his performance in key stretches of the season has proven him right.
Knowing that Koundé has established himself at the club and is part of a notable defensive line with Cubarsí, Íñigo Martínez, and Balde, Barça also doesn't want to take unnecessary risks. Losing him in the midst of the rebuilding process would be a difficult blow for Flick to absorb. And although the club is exploring market options to strengthen the flank, no current alternative offers the same guarantees.