Why Barcelona should go all out to sign Sevilla’s Jules Kounde
According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Daily Mail), Barcelona have targeted Sevilla starlet Jules Kounde in a bid to bolster their defence ahead of the new season.
The report suggests the new Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman is looking for a squad-overhaul and has been impressed by Kounde’s performance. However, they would have to face competition to secure his services as league rivals Real Madrid have also monitored the youngster and Sevilla have no intentions to sell him.
Profile
Born in France, Kounde spent time at the academies of Landiras, Cerons and La Brede before joining Bordeaux’s youth system. He made his senior bow in the 2017/18 campaign and went on to make 70 appearances for the club before joining Sevilla in a £22m last summer.
Since his arrival in Spain, he has established himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga and was impressive for the Andalusian outfit last season. He made 40 appearances last season, helping them finish in the top four and also lift the Europa League.
Why Barcelona need Kounde
At the moment, five centre-backs are available at Koeman’s disposal. Their defence was poor last season, which saw the Blaugrana concede 8 goals against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. And it is clear that they are in dire need of central defenders.
Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet were the two regular starters last campaign but their performances were not up to the mark. Samuel Umtiti has struggled with injuries in the last couple of seasons and has been inconsistent.
Jean-Clair Todibo has also failed to establish himself and spent the previous season on loan with Schalke. Apart from that, they have Ronald Araujo.
Moreover, Pique is already 33 and reaching the twilight of his career. Thus, the La Liga giants must bring in a centre-back for the future. And Sevilla’s Kounde would be a good option for the club. The youngster has been in great form and impressed in his debut season in La Liga.
His inclusion would definitely add depth to Barca’s backline, whilst also bringing in healthy competition to the squad. He has the ability to succeed at the top level and the fact that he is just 21 means he would be a long-term addition. He could develop himself under the guidance of Koeman and could be a perfect replacement for Pique.
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Verdict
Given Pique’s age and the lack of quality at the back, it is clear that the Catalan giants are in need of centre-backs. And Kounde could be a perfect addition to the squad. He could also represent them in the long run if he is able to continue with the fine form. Thus, Barcelona should lure the Frenchman to Camp Nou this summer.
