Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, as per Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
After letting Trent Alexander-Arnold join Real Madrid, the Reds decided to replace the Englishman by purchasing Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen last summer.
However, the Dutchman endured a disappointing debut campaign in the Premier League, with fitness problems being one of the main reasons. Apart from him, Liverpool currently have Conor Bradley as the right-back option, but he has been out due to a serious knee issue over the last few months.
As a result, former manager Arne Slot used Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones as auxiliary right-backs last season. The Reds have already reinforced the right side of the defence by signing Ronald Araujo from Barcelona this summer.
The Uruguayan is a right-footed centre-back by trait but can provide cover in the right-back position if needed. However, it appears Andoni Iraola wants another defender, and Liverpool are planning to raid the Blaugrana once again.
Now, while translating the print version of Mundo Deportivo, Sport Witness report that Liverpool are keen on signing Kounde and Barcelona are prepared to cash-in on him for a substantial fee.
However, the 27-year-old doesn’t want to leave Camp Nou, having recently signed a long-term contract until 2030. But he is unlikely to play regularly next season.
Kounde to Liverpool
Apart from the Merseyside club, Manchester City and Arsenal are also in this race, with the Gunners showing the most interest in signing him. They are even prepared to spend a big fee to win the race.
Kounde, valued at around £51m by Transfermarkt, has been featuring as a right-back over the last few years but previously played as a centre-back for Sevilla.
The Frenchman is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions. After proving his worth in club football, he has secured his place in the French national team’s starting line-up.
He is a top-class player and could be a shrewd acquisition for Liverpool should they purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Anfield club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services.
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