Liverpool manager Arne Slot is working diligently to prepare his team for the upcoming season, which could bring significant changes to the defense, particularly with the potential departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid next summer.
Given this situation, the club has already begun searching for a reliable replacement for the right-back, with reports indicating that Barcelona’s Jules Kounde is the primary option that Slot is focusing on.
Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set to refuse a contract renewal with Liverpool, which would open the door for a summer move to Real Madrid.
The English player has been one of the mainstays of the Reds’ lineup for years, and his potential signing by Real Madrid would be a major strategic coup for president Florentino Perez, who is looking to strengthen the right flank of the royal team.
In this context, Slot has quickly started working on finding a suitable replacement, and Kounde appears to be the ideal candidate for his plans.
The Dutch coach greatly appreciates the versatility of the French defender, who can play both as a centre-back and a right-back. His speed, passing ability, and defensive strength make Kounde an excellent option to cover for Alexander-Arnold should he make the move to Madrid.
On the other hand, Barcelona faces a significant dilemma regarding the future of Kounde. The French defender, who joined Barcelona from Sevilla, has become a key player in the team’s defense. However, improving the club’s financial situation remains a priority for Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which could make it difficult for the club to turn down a tempting offer from Liverpool.
Liverpool’s interest in Kounde is not new. Since his days at Sevilla, several English clubs have been closely monitoring the French defender, but Kounde ultimately chose Barcelona. Now, with Slot taking over as Liverpool coach, it seems the Reds are ready to make a strong push to sign him.
Within Barcelona, there is no consensus on the possibility of letting Kounde go. Some view selling the French defender as an opportunity to ease the club’s financial burdens at a time when Barcelona needs to improve its economic situation. However, others believe that his departure would significantly weaken the defense, which has shown marked improvement in recent months. This has put Barcelona in a tough position, facing a real dilemma over Kounde’s future.