Barcelona director a ‘big fan’ of Belgian international defender – report

Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez’s decision to deploy Jules Kounde at right-back week in and week out is one driven by compulsion rather than choice. The French defender does a fine job playing out of position, but there is little doubt that he is capable of far more in his natural niche.

Barcelona’s biggest priority heading into the summer transfer window is thus, quite unsurprisingly, the right-back position. Several names have been rumoured to be on the Catalans’ wishlist, and Thomas Meunier is one of them.

According to reports from SPORT, Barcelona director Jordi Cruyff is a big fan of the Borussia Dortmund defender. The admiration for his profile in the Barça offices places him better to join the club when compared to his counterparts.

Joao Cancelo and Juan Foyth are some of the other names considered by the Blaugranas to reinforce the right-back department come June. Both players offer unique profiles but are said to be off the table owing to the club’s financial situation.

Meunier, in that sense, is one of the best bets for Xavi’s side. Considering that his contract expires next year, the Belgian international could be available at a bargain price, fitting well into the Catalan account book.

At 30 years of age, the defender may not be the best option in the long run. However, his experience at PSG and Dortmund can make him a handy option for a couple of seasons before Barcelona spend big on a younger name.

The Belgian international has played just ten games for the German outfit this season in Bundesliga with no goal contributions to show. He averages under an hour per game and has created three big chances in the process. Defensively, he has overseen three clean sheets and produces over seven defensive actions per game.