Liverpool plot ₦128 billion move for Barcelona star

Liverpool are reportedly plotting a move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, as he has been added to the list of defenders they admire ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old joined the Blaugrana in the summer of 2022 from Sevilla and has transitioned from a centre-back to a right-back, two positions Liverpool require quality additions in. 

According to the Spanish publication MD, the Reds have their sights on Kounde, as they are keen on bolstering their defensive ranks in the summer after struggling in that department this season.

Kounde is an important player for the Blaugrana and is one of the players to have logged the most minutes since he signed for the club. However, he is not regarded as an ‘untouchable’ and Barcelona’s financial straits could force them into a sale.

The LALIGA champions signed Kounde for €60 million, and the Reds are reportedly prepared to pay up to €80 million to prise him away from the Catalan Giants. 

Meanwhile, the Blaugrana are making transfer plans of their own, as an individual close to Dusan Vlahovic’s camp said that the Serbia international is set to join Barcelona when his Juventus contract expires at the end of the current campaign.

Financial constraints have repeatedly narrowed Barcelona’s options, forcing them to explore free agents and bargain options. In recent windows, they have been linked with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Julian Alvarez and Benjamin Šeško but have been priced out of such deals.

Hence, Vlahović’s contractual situation at Juventus makes him an attractive market opportunity. As it provides an opportunity to sign a competent striker for free.