Journalist: Liverpool have the chance to sign Barcelona star for just £55m | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfer News: Jules Kounde Price Cut Opens Door For Reds

Liverpool’s defensive rebuild may not be finished yet.

According to an update from Mark Brus, Liverpool are “keeping an eye on developments” regarding Jules Kounde, with Barcelona reportedly open to selling the defender this summer. Brus adds that the Spanish champions are “surprisingly” prepared to sanction his departure, with the France international now viewed as “expendable” at Camp Nou.

That represents a notable shift in the market.

Kounde had previously been valued at between £65m and £70m, but the report states that Barcelona have now made him available for £55m. It is also claimed that the club “have been sounding out previous suitors such as Chelsea and Liverpool as possible buyers”, making it clear there is a willingness to explore a transfer.

For Liverpool, under new head coach Andoni Iraola, it is a situation that warrants close attention.

Defensive versatility could appeal to Iraola

Liverpool have already reshaped part of their defence this summer following Ibrahima Konate’s departure and the arrival of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes. Even so, further reinforcements cannot be ruled out.

Kounde offers valuable flexibility. As highlighted in the original report, he is “equally comfortable at centre-back or right-back”, giving Liverpool an experienced option across two important positions.

Photo: IMAGO

Reduced valuation creates transfer opportunity

Liverpool have generally focused on recruiting younger players with long term development potential, making Kounde something of a departure from that approach at 27 years of age.

However, experience has value, particularly during periods of transition.

The report explains that Barcelona have lowered their valuation and that it is “now clear” the La Liga champions are open to selling the defender. It also suggests the reduced asking price is expected to “invite more concrete interest”.

Liverpool will undoubtedly assess whether the financial package represents value, while also weighing up how Kounde would fit alongside the club’s existing defensive options.

Summer decision worth watching

Interest does not automatically lead to negotiations, but Kounde is now firmly back on the radar after Barcelona’s apparent willingness to do business.

Liverpool have admired the defender in the past, dating back to his Sevilla days, and circumstances have now changed significantly.

With an established international defender available at a lower price than previously expected, this could become one of the more intriguing stories to follow during the remainder of the transfer window.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, this feels like a transfer worth exploring seriously.

Replacing Konate with Jeremy Jacquet adds potential, but there remains room for another experienced defender who can contribute immediately. Kounde would offer exactly that. His ability to play both centrally and at right-back gives Iraola valuable tactical flexibility across a long season.

Liverpool also find themselves in an important period under a new head coach. Experienced players who have consistently performed at the highest level can help accelerate that transition, particularly in a defence that has already undergone significant change this summer.

The reported £55m valuation still represents a sizeable investment, but elite defenders rarely become available below market value. If Barcelona are genuinely prepared to sell and Liverpool believe Kounde fits the tactical profile Iraola wants, this is an opportunity that deserves careful consideration.