DEAL GETTING CLOSER: Barcelona seriously worried that Arsenal will sign ‘the best player in La Liga’ this summer
Barcelona will demand at least €60 million to sell Jules Kounde, with Arsenal one of the clubs interested in the French international.
According to Sport, Barcelona will demand at least €60 million should they decide to sell Jules Kounde this summer. Arsenal are reportedly keen on the 25-year-old utility man, with Mikel Arteta seeking players such as the French international to bolster his defensive ranks.
Arsenal need to pay €60 million to sign Jules Kounde.
Ben White’s trajectory offers insight into how Mikel Arteta likes his full-backs to play. The Spanish manager successfully converted the centre-back into one of the best right-backs in the Premier League. Jules Kounde has had a similar path to fit himself in the Barcelona system.
The centre-back, who reportedly likes to play centrally, has been deployed in the right-back role at Barcelona and for France under Didier Deschamps. He is extremely comfortable in that role, which makes him an exciting option for Arteta to consider as he continues to search for a new defender to shore up his backline.
The Gunners are keen on challenging Manchester City for the title, and a player like Kounde will certainly boost their prospects. Arsenal have approached Barcelona for the 25-year-old utility man, who would cost at least €60 million in the current market.
Arsenal might be willing to fork out that much should the player show signs of wanting to join them, as there are doubts about that as things stand. While Kounde may wish to stay in Barcelona for years to come, their economic situation could force a sale.
Barcelona to sell one of Kounde or Ronald Araujo
Barcelona are not willing to sell Kounde for less than €60 million, and there are chances that Arsenal may sign him. However, before making a decision on the Frenchman, the Blaugrana will consider the prospect of Ronaldo Araujo staying, with the Uruguayan attracting massive Premier League interest.
Barcelona are only likely to sell one of Araujo or Kounde and will only entertain offers for the Frenchman if they get guarantees about the Uruguayan staying. Hence, the idea of the 25-year-old mainstay departing for Arsenal or other clubs will not be a straightforward move as things stand.
