EPL Index
·2 avril 2026
Report: Liverpool, Chelsea and Man City are all interested in move for Barcelona star

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Yahoo sportsEPL Index
·2 avril 2026

Barcelona find themselves navigating a familiar dilemma, retain a key asset or capitalise on rising market value. Credit to Mundo Deportivo for highlighting the renewed attention surrounding Jules Koundé, a player who remains central to Hansi Flick’s plans but is attracting sustained interest from some of the Premier League’s most powerful clubs.
Koundé’s situation reflects the modern transfer landscape, where long term contracts offer security but do not entirely shield clubs from elite level pursuit. His renewal until 2030 was designed to underline Barcelona’s commitment, yet the noise around him has not diminished.

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“City called to ask if he was available. Since we told them no, there was no offer.”
That comment, attributed to Deco via Mundo Deportivo, speaks to a recurring theme, interest often precedes action, and conversations begin long before formal bids materialise.
Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are all monitoring developments closely. Each club arrives with a different tactical need, yet all share a desire for defensive reliability at full back.
Liverpool’s interest aligns with a search for balance, particularly after adding attacking options in that position. Manchester City’s admiration is long standing, rooted in Koundé’s versatility and composure in possession. Chelsea’s involvement reflects unfinished business, having previously attempted to secure his signature before his move to Barcelona.
“Barcelona have learned that the French full-back has high-level suitors.”
This is not speculative noise. It is sustained tracking, the kind that can quickly evolve into firm proposals if circumstances shift.
Koundé remains a regular starter, though his campaign has lacked the consistency that defined his earlier spell. Injuries have disrupted rhythm, including a muscle issue that ruled him out of key fixtures such as the Champions League tie against Newcastle.
There is also a sense that his influence has fluctuated. His decisive contribution in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid last season elevated his standing among supporters, yet this term has presented a more uneven trajectory.

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“this season he hasn’t been enjoying himself as much as last year”
That detail matters. Clubs do not only assess quality, they evaluate trajectory, and moments of vulnerability can trigger increased external interest.
Barcelona’s position is carefully balanced. The club value Koundé highly and would prefer continuity, yet they remain conscious of financial realities and squad planning.
“Depending on whether a stratospheric offer arrives, the club and the player could consider his departure.”
Reports suggest a valuation around €65 million, though figures closer to €80 million have been discussed in England. At that level, the conversation changes. Barcelona’s recruitment priorities include strengthening at centre forward and centre back, with high profile targets already identified.
The presence of alternatives within the squad also shapes the equation. Eric Garcia, Xavi Espart, Araujo and the potential extension of Joao Cancelo’s loan provide flexibility. Interest in Andrea Cambiaso adds another layer of contingency planning.
The key variable remains whether interest translates into a concrete offer. Should that happen, player approval would become decisive, and Barcelona’s resolve would be tested against financial opportunity.
For Liverpool, this report reinforces a clear strategic intent. Strengthening defensive stability remains essential, and a player of Koundé’s profile offers immediate reliability. Supporters would view this as a statement move, particularly given the club’s evolving tactical structure.
Manchester City fans are likely to interpret the situation differently. There is confidence in the club’s ability to secure top targets when required. Koundé fits a familiar mould, technically secure, tactically adaptable, and capable of operating across the back line. The expectation would be that any genuine pursuit is carefully calculated rather than reactive.
Chelsea supporters may see opportunity. The club’s previous interest suggests long standing admiration, and there is often a sense that unfinished transfer pursuits can resurface. With ongoing squad refinement, adding an experienced defender with elite pedigree would align with broader ambitions.
Across all three fanbases, there is recognition of Barcelona’s financial position. “If the price reaches that level, it becomes difficult for any club to ignore,” is a sentiment that resonates widely.
There is also an understanding that player preference will shape the outcome. Premier League clubs can offer competitive packages and a different competitive environment, yet Barcelona retain significant appeal.
Ultimately, this feels like a situation that could accelerate quickly. Interest is established, valuation is emerging, and strategic needs are clear. For now, it remains a watchful market, but one that carries the potential for a decisive shift.
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