Our French have talent. And not just a little. When the time comes for the transfer window, many French players cross borders to try their luck abroad, with more or less success. This is the bet that Jules Koundé made in 2019. Indeed, the right back, also capable of playing in the center, joined Sevilla FC. A profitable choice since the native of Paris shone in Andalusia. So strong, that he dazzled FC Barcelona, who paid €50 million to recruit him in July 2022. In Catalonia, the French international (57 caps) made his mark.
But in recent weeks, the tide has turned. This summer, the Catalan press, Barça’s true penholder, multiplied the articles to announce that the Blaugranas were not closed to a sale. As is often the case with Koundé, already announced in the past in Chelsea’s sights, the Premier League has come forward. Arsenal and Tottenham have been cited as potential landing points. Later, he was associated with Paris Saint-Germain. Finally, the footballer born in 98 remained with the residents of Camp Nou.
Koundé is Bayern Munich’s winter priority
However, his situation has not necessarily improved since he is not a starter in the mind of coach Hans Dieter Flick. The Frenchman is paying the price for the competition and has made 5 appearances this season, but only 2 as a starter (0 goals and assists). But that’s not all. He took his place on the bench without coming into play during Culés’ last 3 outings in La Liga. If Andreas Christensen’s injury may allow him to gain playing time, the former Bordeaux player is going through his most delicate period with the Catalans. All this has not escaped certain clubs, including Bayern Munich.
Sport reveals that Koundé is the priority for the Germans this winter. The Bavarians want to sell Kim Min-Jae, who is being courted (Tottenham, Aston Villa, AC Milan), to replenish their coffers with at least €40 million. The sum will be reinvested to get their hands on the Barça player. Under contract until 2030, the versatile defender did not necessarily want to leave last summer. This winter, the situation may change. The Munich residents, who are just waiting for a sign from the player, want to try their luck. With Dayot Upamecano and Michael Olise, they have some assets to tip the scales. But the ball is in Koundé’s court, valued at €60 million by the specialist site transfermarkt. In the meantime, the player, who is one of Mbappé’s vice-captains appointed by Zidane, is focusing on the Blues.
