Barcelona restart operation to sign Sevilla centre-back

Barcelona are bracing themselves for a major defensive overhaul in the coming summer. The club are expected to offload Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti, in order to make way for newer signings.

The Catalans have already managed to tie Ronald Araujo down to a new long-term contract whereas the Andreas Christensen looks all set to join from Chelsea on a free transfer.

But as per Diario AS, Xavi Hernandez is targeting another centre-back in the summer. It appears there are growing suspicions in the Barça camp over the longevity of Gerard Pique next season, with the defender already suffering from chronic adductor issues.

Barcelona have identified three potential options in the market, with the list including Jules Kounde of Sevilla.

The report suggests the Frenchman is highly rated in the Barcelona camp due to his physical and aerial prowess, coupled with his pace. His abilities in the build-up could make him an ideal long-term replacement for someone like Pique.

Barcelona are set to face stiff competition from other European clubs in the race to sign Kounde, who is more than likely to leave Sevilla at the end of the season.

But it appears the Blaugrana have an advantage in the race as the player is reportedly keen on becoming a part of Xavi’s project at Camp Nou.

The biggest obstacle for the Catalans could be Kounde’s hefty €90 million valuation. But even so, Barcelona are open to finding economic solutions and could include Sergino Dest in a potential player plus cash deal.

Kounde’s wages should not be an issue at Camp Nou, with the defending barely earning €2.5 million per season at Sevilla.

However, if they are to sign the Frenchman, Barcelona may have to swiftly sanction the departures of all their unwanted players including Sergi Roberto, Umtiti and Lenglet, with the latter already attracting offers from the Premier League.