Change of priorities: Barcelona will stop looking for a right-back if Kounde signs

The Spanish media has put out conflicting reports today regarding Barcelona’s interest in Jules Kounde.

Gerard Romero has dominated the headlines after claiming there has been a successful agreement between Barça and Sevilla. But his claims were later refuted by corporate sources including Marca.

Other individual journalists have also put out conflicting reports but there is a strong belief that Kounde has recently rejected Chelsea’s offer and will wait for Barça’s proposal before taking a definitive decision on his future.

This has been reported by Diario AS, who also suggests that Kounde’s arrival may significantly change the outlook for Barcelona’s squad planning ahead of the new season.

The Catalans are currently in the market for a new centre-back, who can prove to be an ideal long-term replacement for Gerard Pique and a couple of fullbacks on either side.

However, as per Diario AS, Barça could drop the idea of signing a right-back if they are successful in securing the services of Kounde. The club are aware of the Frenchman’s versatility and believe his presence will be enough to cover the entire right flank.

Barça’s current options at right-back include Sergino Dest and Sergi Roberto. The two will ideally be considered as reliable options for the position, with Kounde and Ronald Araujo serving as alternatives.

Although Kounde is far from a fullback, his quality on the ball makes it easier for him to operate out wide if necessary. Araujo, too, has played in the right-back position in the past and should become an excellent fourth-choice option.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are expected to go after a left-back, regardless of Kounde’s fate. The club are strongly in favour of signing a deputy for Jordi Alba, who is already in the final phase of his career and might not stick around for long.

Marcos Alonso was identified as the desired option for Xavi, but should Chelsea block the transfer, the club could consider a move for either Sergio Reguilon or Caio Henrique.