PSG target Jules Koundé in €120m bid as Zabarnyi talks stall
French giants eye Barcelona defender to strengthen backline before new season
Paris Saint-Germain are preparing a massive €120 million (approx. R$779 million) offer to sign Jules Koundé from Barcelona, as negotiations for primary target Illya Zabarnyi hit a deadlock. With defensive depth a major concern, the Parisian club is accelerating its search for reinforcements.
Zabarnyi Talks Break Down, Koundé Becomes Top Target
According to E-Noticies, PSG sporting director Luis Campos and head coach Luis Enrique have shifted focus to Jules Koundé after struggling to reach an agreement with Bournemouth for Ukrainian center-back Zabarnyi.
Luis Enrique, who has long admired Koundé’s versatility and composure, sees the 25-year-old as the ideal fit for his system and one of the best defenders currently available on the market.
Koundé’s Role at PSG
Koundé’s ability to play both as a center-back and a right-back adds tactical flexibility. While Achraf Hakimi remains untouchable in the right-back slot, Koundé would primarily operate in central defense his preferred position while offering occasional rotation support for Hakimi.
Barcelona Reluctant to Sell
Despite PSG’s financial power, Barcelona are reportedly unwilling to sell Koundé, who joined the club from Sevilla in 2022. The Catalan club values his contributions and does not consider him transfer-listed, though the €120 million figure could force them to reconsider if financial pressure mounts.
Time Running Out for PSG
With the new season looming, PSG are racing against the clock to bolster their backline. The club’s recent Champions League shortcomings have exposed weaknesses in defense a problem Enrique is determined to resolve quickly.
Whether Barcelona stands firm or PSG’s spending muscle prevails, the next few weeks could be decisive in one of this summer’s biggest potential transfer stories.
