Liverpool interested in Jules Koundé, who could cost around €70 million

Liverpool are interested in Barcelona defender Jules Koundé, and a fee close to €70 million could be enough to complete a deal. The interest was reported by Football Insider in an article relayed by Bild, which said that “there are no official negotiations yet”. The move therefore remains a potential target rather than an active transfer negotiation.

Koundé, 27, joined Barcelona from Sevilla in the summer of 2022 for €50 million. He had long been one of the team’s mainstays, but his role has diminished considerably recently: he has played only four La Liga matches this season. Previously, he was no longer regarded as unsellable after being moved into a secondary role under Hans Flick.

Liverpool’s search for a right-back gives the possibility added relevance. The club faces Connor Bradley’s probable absence until next year and unconvincing performances from Jeremy Frimpong. Ronald Araújo, on loan from Barcelona, is also not a conventional right-back.

Competition could make the pursuit more complicated: Koundé is also of interest to Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City, according to Sport. His own position remains unclear. A Spanish newspaper has said he could consider a move in January; other reports, however, say he immediately rejected an approach from Liverpool and wants to regain his starting place under Flick. The defender is under contract with Barcelona until 2030. Joe Gomez could also leave the Reds this summer, while Koundé can play at right-back or centre-back.