Barcelona not actively pushing to sell 27-year-old defensive mainstay but open to offers | OneFootball

Barcelona have an important summer ahead, with not only signings but also sales set to shape the future of the squad under Hansi Flick.

Among those whose future has been in question in recent weeks is Jules Kounde. The Frenchman is coming off a mixed season for Barça but has been playing well for France at the World Cup.

Now, according to MARCA, Barcelona are not planning to place Jules Kounde on the market this summer, but the club would be willing to study a major offer if one arrives.

That is a sensible stance from the club. Kounde remains a high-level defender, one who has given Barcelona valuable service both at centre-back and right-back.

However, his recent form has been such that the Catalan club cannot consider him untouchable, especially considering his value on the market.

Barcelona open to offers. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

The difference matters. This is not an exit push. It is not Barcelona trying to force the Frenchman out.

It is simply the club keeping the door open if the market presents a deal that could seriously help their sporting and economic planning.

Kounde still has value

Kounde’s versatility has made him important under different coaches. He may prefer to play centrally, but his ability to perform at right-back has often solved problems for Barça.

That role has not always been easy. Playing behind Lamine Yamal demands discipline, concentration and physical recovery because the winger naturally takes attacking risks. Kounde has often had to balance the entire right side.

At the same time, Barcelona are looking at their defensive structure carefully.

Will Kounde stay or leave? (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Hector Fort is returning from loan and wants to convince Hansi Flick in pre-season, while Xavi Espart is also emerging through the ranks.

If a strong offer comes for Kounde, Barça will have to ask a difficult question: is his sporting importance greater than the financial flexibility his sale could create?

A decision that should only be made for serious money

Selling Kounde would only make sense for a very high fee. He is experienced, still in his prime and proven at the elite level.

Replacing him would not be simple. Barça would lose a defender who can cover two positions, compete in big matches and give the coach tactical options.

This is the modern Barcelona reality. Even though they are back in the 1:1 rule this summer, the club want to improve, register players, manage salaries and still stay competitive.

The 27-year-old remains part of the plan, and that should only change if an irresistible offer comes to the table. It remains to be seen how his future pans out.