Arsenal named among 'strongest contenders' for Barcelona's France star

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Arsenal have emerged as one of the two leading clubs in the race for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, with the France international's standing at the Camp Nou having slipped considerably this season.

According to Catalan newspaper SPORT, the 27-year-old's situation has 'not gone unnoticed' in England, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool all tracking developments. Of that group, the Gunners and Chelsea are described as the 'strongest contenders' to land him.

Down the pecking order under Flick

Kounde arrived at Barcelona in 2022 following a three-year spell at Sevilla and won La Liga in his debut campaign. He has since collected seven trophies in total with the Catalan club, including two further league titles.

This season has looked very different. Kounde now sits behind both Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart in Hansi Flick's right-back rotation, and three of his four La Liga appearances this term have come off the bench. He has made just one league start.

The defender addressed the situation with French media this week. "It's the coach's decision," Kounde said. "I feel very good physically, I have no injury. If I have less playing time, it's due to last season, which was far below my standards. It's a consequence and a challenge that I gladly accept."

He added: "I'll have to work, which is what I normally do. It's up to me to rediscover my best form. I know that when I'm at my best, I'll get playing time."

No negotiations — yet

The report states that Kounde is 'highly valued' in the Premier League because of his experience at club and international level, along with his versatility across right-back and centre-half. Arsenal are said to have first considered a move for him last summer.

City, United and Liverpool are reportedly 'keeping a close eye' on the situation for now, with their interest potentially becoming 'more significant' if Kounde remains on the fringes of Flick's plans over the coming months.

There have been no open negotiations or formal offers at the time of writing, and Barcelona are understood to be in no rush to sell. SPORT claims only a 'very high offer' would tempt the La Liga champions into sanctioning a January exit, with Kounde's contract running until June 2030.

The player's position is reportedly that he 'wants to feel important' and remain a 'relevant part of the project' in Catalonia. If it becomes clear that is not the case, he would be willing to explore alternatives.

Barcelona have already identified potential replacements should a departure materialise, with Sporting's Ivan Fresneda and Tottenham's Pedro Porro named as options at right-back.

With four years still left on his deal and Barcelona holding firm, any move in January would require Arsenal to meet a significant valuation. The coming months at the Camp Nou are likely to determine whether the situation develops further.