[REVISION HISTORY]

Jules Koundé potential transfer from FC Barcelona

Updated 11 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-13 16:42 UTC → 2026-10-18 14:39 UTC · added ~~removed~~

FC Barcelona is considering the sale of French defender Jules Koundé following a reduction in his playing time under manager Hansi Flick. While Koundé has reached ~~a milestone of~~ 193 official appearances for the club, his role has diminished as Flick has increasingly relied on Eric Garcia and João Cancelo. This decline in minutes has also extended to the French national team. Despite interest from Premier League clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool, as well as interest from Bayern Munich and Italian sides AC Milan and Inter Milan, a January departure initially appeared unlikely. Koundé has expressed his intention to fight for his starting position, and Barcelona has been reluctant to sell him cheaply given his contract runs until 2030. However, recent developments suggest a shift in the situation. Reports indicate that Barcelona management, including Joan Laporta and Deco, have reportedly granted permission to negotiate his transfer. Chelsea FC, managed by Xabi Alonso, is specifically eyeing the defender as a potential fit for a five-defender system due to his physicality and ball distribution. Journalist Matteo Moretto noted that Chelsea made inquiries for the Frenchman during the summer and remains interested. Liverpool FC ~~has also emerged as a potential suitor. The club~~ is reportedly eyeing Koundé as a potential replacement for Jeremie Frimpong, who may be sold in the January transfer window ~~following~~ due to struggles adapting to the Premier League. A move for the French international could cost approximately £60 million. ~~Any~~ However, any pursuit by Liverpool may depend on the club’s decision regarding Ronald Araujo, who is currently at Liverpool on a season-long loan from ~~Barcelona.~~ Barcelona with an option to buy for €55 million. Liverpool’s search for defensive stability is further complicated by injury concerns regarding Conor Bradley. Chelsea FC remains a significant suitor, viewing Koundé as a high priority to bolster their defense due to his versatility as both a central defender and a right-back. Reports suggest Chelsea is considering an ambitious January plan that targets both Koundé and Frenkie de Jong in a move that could reach approximately 130 million euros. While Barcelona has reportedly indicated they might consider his sale in 2027, no official negotiations or formal offers have been confirmed between the clubs.

Versions

Only revisions since CLSTR began indexing content versions appear here. Select a version to see what changed compared to the one before it.