Barcelona have turned down Arsenal’s initial approach for defender Jules Kounde, according to reports from Spain. Kounde, who joined Barcelona from Sevilla two years ago for €50 million (£41.8 million), has just completed his second season with the La Liga giants.
The 25-year-old versatile defender, capable of playing both centre-back and right-back, primarily featured on the right side of Barcelona’s defence last season. He has continued to play in that position for France during their three group games at Euro 2024.
Jijantes reported that Arsenal inquired about Kounde’s availability this summer, but Barcelona are not actively looking to sell the French international. Jijantes host, Gerard Romero said, “Barca have told them he is not going to leave at the moment and for Jules Kounde to leave, it would take a high offer.”
Romero added, “They have told Arsenal they are waiting for Ronald Araujo and it depends on what happens with him. I have a lot of doubts about selling Jules. I agree in the end you can’t sell both, you have to sell one or the other.”