Barcelona enter Jules Kounde race?

Barcelona are reportedly among a few clubs looking to swoop for in-demand Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde.

The 23-year-old was expected to complete a transfer to Chelsea last summer, but the Blues failed to meet the price and he remained at the Andalusian outfit.

The Blues are likely to reignite their interest in signing the Frenchman as a number of their current centre-backs prepare to become free agents.

According to Sport, Barcelona head coach Xavi is extremely keen for the Catalans to pip Chelsea to Kounde’s signature this summer, but the Blaugrana’s financial turmoil will likely scupper a move.

The report goes on to claim that Sevilla is unlikely to consider negotiating with interested suitors over a fee and will only wave to offload Kounde if his €80m release clause is triggered.

Kounde possesses a contract until the end of the 2023-24 campaign.