Barcelona could sell Koundé to Manchester City for €80 million
Manchester City have launched a formal bid worth €80 million (R$522 million) to sign Jules Koundé from FC Barcelona, according to reports from Fichajes. The move reflects Pep Guardiola’s priority to reinforce the right-back position during the ongoing transfer window.
The offer comes at a critical time for Barcelona, who are dealing with well-documented financial difficulties. Despite these challenges, the Catalan club has already announced three new signings: Joan García, Roony Bardghji, and Marcus Rashford. A potential Koundé exit could help balance the books and free up resources for another addition.
Koundé in Guardiola’s Plans
City’s interest in Koundé stems directly from Guardiola, who has reportedly identified the 25-year-old French international as a key target to bolster the defensive line. Koundé, who can play both as a center-back and right-back, fits the tactical profile Guardiola often demands—versatile, quick, and comfortable in possession.
Although Koundé is happy at Barcelona, he is not opposed to the idea of joining Manchester City, provided the deal is mutually beneficial. His current contract with Barça runs through 2027.
Barcelona Facing a Dilemma
The bid puts Barcelona’s board in a difficult position. While Koundé remains a starter under new coach Hansi Flick, the club’s need to raise funds especially with UEFA’s financial fair play looming could make City’s proposal hard to refuse.
Meanwhile, backup goalkeeper Iñaki Peña has already been excluded from preseason training in an effort to facilitate his departure, a sign the club is actively managing outgoing transfers.
Potential Replacement Options
Should Koundé depart, Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries is reportedly being considered as a possible replacement at right-back. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano has emphasized that no formal approach has been made for the Dutchman, and a move would only be accelerated if Koundé is sold.
