Manchester City are reportedly preparing a substantial €80 million offer for Jules Kounde, as they position the 26-year-old French defender as a key target this summer, according to reports from Fichajes.
Manchester City Preparing €80 Million Bid for Jules Kounde Amid Barcelona’s Contract Talks
City view Kounde as an ideal addition valuing his versatility across centre-back and right-back, coupled with his experience at the highest level. This move follows their decision to reinforce defensively after a challenging 2024–25 campaign under Pep Guardiola.
Meanwhile, Barcelona remain unwavering: they currently have no plans to sell Kounde.
The Catalan club sees him as a cornerstone of their defensive rebuild and are focused on securing a new contract instead of entertaining departures.
Their sporting director Deco has held informal talks with the player’s agent about an extension that could push his deal out to 2030, complete with a salary upgrade to reflect his integral role in Hansi Flick’s setup.
City’s interest isn’t unprecedented—Kounde reportedly turned down a previous offer from them due to concerns over their form at the time, preferring to remain in Catalonia.
Now, with fresh ambitions and a desire to bolster their backline, City are reigniting interest with a firm proposal.
Barcelona, however, are preparing for either scenario. Should Kounde decline to renew, they have contingency plans.
The club has already earmarked several potential replacements including Andrei Ratiu, Vanderson, and Marc Pubill each capable of stepping into the right-back role if needed.
With Kounde’s deal running until 2027, Barcelona continue to believe he wants to stay, and on June 20 agreed personal terms that suggest renewal remains the preferred path—at least until a firm bid surfaces.
The coming weeks will be crucial. Manchester City must decide whether to push ahead with their €80 million proposal and risk testing Barcelona’s resolve or step back if the Blaugrana hold firm.
Meanwhile, Barcelona must balance financial realities with sporting ambition as they aim to lock in one of their defensive anchors.
