Barcelona's openness puts Liverpool and Man United on alert for Kounde

Barcelona have signalled they will consider serious offers for 27‑year‑old France international Jules Kounde, prompting Liverpool and Man United to keep a close watch on the defender’s availability. The Catalan club’s change of attitude comes as Kounde’s playing time this season has dwindled, making the prospect of a move increasingly plausible.

Barcelona willing to entertain offers

According to Sport, Liverpool and Manchester United are among five Premier League clubs monitoring Kounde after his role at Barcelona was reduced. The club no longer treats him as untouchable and would consider selling if a sufficiently large offer arrives.

Kounde has started only a small number of matches this season, losing ground to Eric Garcia, who is now preferred on the right side of defence. This reduced involvement has heightened interest from England, where his versatility has long been admired.

Premier League clubs eye the French defender

Chelsea and Arsenal are thought to show the strongest interest, but Liverpool and United remain in the conversation. For Liverpool, Kounde’s ability to play both centre‑back and right‑back offers Andoni Iraola valuable flexibility as they plan the long‑term future of their back line.

United’s approach differs slightly; they are assessing several defensive targets and see Kounde as a source of immediate experience, athleticism and composure for a back line still undergoing change.

The price remains the main hurdle. Barcelona are not desperate to sell, meaning any deal would need to be substantial, and competition from Chelsea and Arsenal could drive the figure higher. Kounde is not believed to be actively forcing an exit, so negotiations are unlikely to be straightforward.

If his reduced role continues, the situation could shift quickly, but both Liverpool and United need defensive quality, and a player of Kounde’s experience rarely becomes available without attracting serious competition. Want more CaughtOffside coverage?