Barcelona defender no longer considered ‘untransferable’

Barcelona have slowed matters down on the transfer front after the signing of Anthony Gordon, but there are clear plans of incorporating more signings in the coming weeks.

For big-name arrivals, however, departures are an essential prerequisite and the club are aware that they must part ways with some established players in the dressing room.

Jules Kounde, on that front, sits in a grey area as reported by SPORT, and his situation continues to generate doubt and could well go either way.

No longer untransferable
As relayed by the Spanish outlet, Kounde continues to be an important part of Hansi Flick’s squad. What has changed, however, is that he no longer has the ‘untransferable’ tag that he firmly had until last year.

Barcelona are not actively looking to sell Kounde as matters stand. They do, however, understand that if an offer arrives, they will be forced to sit down and listen to it.

The right-back has given decent performances in recent times, but what has changed the most is his inconsistency. Kounde no longer delivers the same high-level performances week in and week out, and his disconnection from the team at times is worrying.

Kounde’s name came up in multiple of Deco’s transfer interactions in recent months when talking to agents of potential right-back targets. What is clear is that Barcelona will not sign a new player in the department unless the Frenchman leaves.

The player’s will
One of the primary reasons that Kounde’s departure looks unlikely at the point in time is the player’s own stance.

The Frenchman is happy in Catalonia and sees no urgent need for a change in scenery. He is looking to recover his best level and continue as a starter for Hansi Flick – something even the club will be hoping for given their other priorities on the transfer market.

For a departure to unfold, the first factor that will have to change is Kounde’s stance. After all, he is contracted with Barcelona until 2030 and is under no obligation to leave.

Last season, the 27-year-old made 30 league appearances for Barcelona and had one goal and three assists to his name. He oversaw eight clean sheets and averaged over eight defensive actions per game.