Arsenal Target Koundé with £55m Offer, But Barça Stand Firm
In order to continue to challenge for the championship in the new season, Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta is actively seeking to strengthen the lineup. According to Spanish media, the Gunners are ready to offer Barcelona defender Jules Kounde a formal offer of up to 55 million pounds in the hope of completing this heavyweight signing in the summer window.
Since joining Barcelona from Sevilla for 42 million pounds in 2022, Kounde has gradually become an indispensable member of Xavi's lineup. Although his main job is central defender, he is more often arranged as a right back in Camp Nou. With his excellent defensive ability and ball-playing skills, Kounde has grown into a very stable presence in Barcelona's defense.
Arsenal appreciates Kounde's versatility. Arteta has always wanted to introduce a player who can play both central defender and full-back to enhance the team's defensive thickness and flexibility in multi-line operations. Kounde is the ideal candidate.
However, the deal currently looks difficult. Although Arsenal is willing to offer up to 55 million pounds, Barcelona is determined not to sell the French international. On the one hand, Xavi still regards Kounde as a core member of the defense; on the other hand, although the club's financial pressure is still there, they prefer to sell marginal players rather than the main players.
In addition, Kounde himself has not clearly expressed his intention to leave the team. He previously rejected Chelsea's invitation and chose La Liga, which also reflects his recognition of Barcelona and La Liga.
Despite this, Arsenal has not given up. In the current competitive transfer market, a more convincing offer or a subtle change in the player's attitude may become the key to leverage the deal. In the next few weeks, whether Arsenal will increase the offer and whether Barcelona will change its position, Kounde's future direction will become a major highlight in the transfer window.
