Barcelona are reportedly ready to offer Jules Kounde a lucrative contract extension that will tie the Frenchman down at the Nou Camp until 2030.
Kounde’s performance over the past few months has gained the attention of top teams across Europe, with Chelsea among those apparently keeping tabs on the defender.
Chelsea are reportedly willing to offer Kounde the chance to play in the Premier League by offering him a deal in the summer as Enzo Maresca’s side continue their extensive rebuild.
But after wrapping up a host of contract extensions at the start of 2025, reports in Spain claim Barcelona are now looking to do the same with Kounde to block Chelsea’s advances.
Jules Kounde centre-back of Barcelona and France (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
According to Diario Sport, Kounde is seen as an important figure in Hansi Flick’s team and the German tactician wants a resolution surrounding his future sorted quickly.
The France international is currently under contract in Catalonia until 2027 but the intention is to extend that bond until 2030 by offering him a hefty wage increase.
Chelsea are rumoured to be willing to offer around £83m for Kounde, which could be considered by Barcelona as they continue to watch their finances.
With Reece James struggling to stay fit, Chelsea have reportedly identify Kounde as a perfect fit. However, Barcelona are not willing to wait until the summer before offering the defender a new contract.
Kounde has been a pillar of Barcelona’s setup this season, starting 21 of their 23 league games so far in the 2024/25 campaign as the Blaugrana push to win back the LaLiga title.
