Barcelona on alert as top clubs track €65 million-rated defender – Report | OneFootball

One of the positive news for FC Barcelona during this international break has been the return of their two starting fullbacks, Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, who were previously out with injuries, to group training.

Meanwhile, both of these players are also linked with moves away from the Catalan club. Balde was recently reported to be enjoying interest from the Premier League, and now, Mundo Deportivo reports that Kounde is also on the radar of several big Premier League sides, including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea.

Barcelona have long been aware of this growing interest. Deco previously confirmed that Manchester City had made initial contact to explore Kounde’s availability, although no formal offer followed after the Catalans made it clear he was not for sale at the time. The club reinforced that stance by renewing his contract until 2030 last summer.

Despite that confidence, the current situation is more open-ended. Kounde remains highly valued, but his performances this season have lacked the same consistency he showed last year, when he became a fan favourite after scoring the decisive goal against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.

Injuries have also played a role, with a recent muscle issue disrupting his rhythm and forcing him to miss key fixtures, including important Champions League and La Liga matches.

Financial realities could also influence Barcelona’s stance. While the club would prefer to keep him to avoid weakening a key position, they are aware that a significant offer could change the equation, especially if it includes improved personal terms they may struggle to match.

Kounde is currently valued at around €65 million by Transfermarkt, but as per MD, citing reports from England, suggest Liverpool could be willing to go as high as €80 million.

Another important angle is Barcelona’s transfer planning. The club is targeting reinforcements in key areas, including a top striker and a central defender, with names like Julian Alvarez and Alessandro Bastoni on their radar. A major sale such as Kounde’s could provide crucial funds to facilitate those moves.

At the same time, Barcelona are preparing for all scenarios internally. They already have several alternatives capable of covering the right back position, including Eric Garcia, academy prospect Xavi Espart, and Ronald Araajo, who has previously been deployed out wide.

The club is also working to extend the stay of Joao Cancelo, while keeping tabs on potential replacements such as Andrea Cambiaso.

Ultimately, everything will depend on whether concrete offers arrive and, crucially, on the player’s own stance. Kounde remains under a long-term contract, but Barcelona are on alert as interest from Europe’s elite continues to grow.