Barcelona face Crystal Palace rejection in move for defender | OneFootball

Barcelona Step Up Interest in Crystal Palace Full-Back as Summer Plan Emerges

Barcelona Reignite Pursuit of Premier League Defender

Barcelona are once again targeting Crystal Palace right-back Daniel Muñoz as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of next season, according to Fichajes. The Colombian international has impressed since his arrival from Genk in early 2024, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers in his position.

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Barcelona’s sporting hierarchy views Muñoz as an ideal addition to provide rotation and competition for Jules Koundé. The report states, “Barcelona have moved again for Daniel Muñoz to bring more attacking variety down the right flank.” Club sources reportedly admire his work rate, tactical intelligence and blend of defensive and offensive attributes.

Rapid Progress in the Premier League

Since joining Crystal Palace, Muñoz has become a vital figure under successive managers. His quick adaptation to English football has been remarkable. The right-back featured in 37 of 38 league matches last season, contributing multiple goals and assists. His numbers place him among the top-performing full-backs outside of the traditional top six.

In the current campaign, he remains ever-present, combining attacking drive with positional discipline. As Fichajes explains, “Muñoz continues to impress, contributing both in defence and attack with reliable consistency.”

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Why Barcelona Are Interested

Barcelona’s need for depth at right-back remains a key issue. While Koundé has performed admirably, Hansi Flick’s system demands more dynamism and attacking width. Muñoz’s ability to overlap, cross effectively and transition quickly makes him a natural fit.

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Fichajes adds, “Muñoz can play both as a wing-back and a traditional full-back, offering tactical flexibility.” This versatility is highly valued by Flick, who has sought players capable of operating fluidly within multiple formations. Muñoz’s profile, marked by endurance and aggression, aligns perfectly with Barcelona’s evolving approach to full-back play.

Financial and Contractual Barriers

Crystal Palace hold the upper hand in negotiations. Muñoz’s contract runs until 2027, with an option to extend, ensuring the London club retain a strong bargaining position. His current valuation, estimated at around €25 million, could rise further given interest from Atlético Madrid and other European clubs.

As the report notes, “Palace have no intention of selling in January,” meaning a potential deal would likely be revisited in the summer of 2026. Barcelona will need to balance their financial limits with their determination to strengthen key areas. Muñoz’s age, 29 by the summer window, may slightly reduce his eventual fee, but Palace will expect a premium for a proven Premier League defender.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Every time a player thrives at Selhurst Park, the rumour mill begins to churn, linking them with European powerhouses. Muñoz has been one of the most consistent performers since arriving, and his blend of energy, maturity and attacking intelligence has made him a fan favourite.

The idea of Barcelona circling again might spark anxiety among fans, particularly given Palace’s reliance on him both defensively and as a source of attacking width. His partnership on the right flank has been key to maintaining balance, and his influence in the dressing room is also notable.

While €25 million might sound like a tempting figure, supporters would argue that his value to the team is far greater. Palace have built a reputation for holding firm on key assets, and Tony Bloom-style negotiations are now the standard under Steve Parish.

If Barcelona return next summer, Palace fans will expect the club to protect their position or demand a price that truly reflects Muñoz’s Premier League standing. For now, they can enjoy watching one of the league’s most underrated full-backs continue to excel in red and blue.