Jules Koundé: Guardiola and Manchester City eye Barcelona star
Jules Koundé is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished defenders of his generation in French football. He began his professional career at Bordeaux, but it was at Sevilla FC where he made his breakthrough, establishing himself as a versatile centre-back with exceptional ball distribution and defensive intelligence. In 2022, FC Barcelona signed him to take advantage of his technical skills and flexibility—capable of operating both centrally and on the flanks. His current contract with the Catalan club runs until the summer of 2030, a factor that makes any transfer negotiations complicated and expensive, reports G.Business.
Why Manchester City are targeting Koundé
Pep Guardiola is renowned for seeking defenders who combine physical strength with tactical intelligence. For his system, it is crucial that a player can build play from the back, break pressing lines, and adapt quickly to different tactical setups. Koundé perfectly fits this profile: confident on the ball, skilled at evading pressure, and capable of creating space for midfield transitions.
Manchester City also need greater depth in defence. While Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Nathan Aké provide high quality, injuries and a congested schedule force Guardiola to look for another world-class option. Koundé’s ability to cover multiple positions makes him an ideal solution.
Why Koundé is so valuable to Guardiola
For Guardiola, Koundé is not merely a transfer target but a long-term strategic investment.
- Tactical flexibility – effective as a centre-back, right-back, or inverted fullback in Guardiola’s schemes.
- Ball-playing ability – reminiscent of John Stones, expanding Manchester City’s options in possession.
- Age and development – at 26, he is entering his prime but still has room to grow.
- International pedigree – a regular for the French national team with Champions League and La Liga experience.
Such attributes could shift the balance of power in the Champions League, providing City with renewed defensive stability.
What the transfer would mean for Barcelona
For Barcelona, losing Koundé would be a significant blow. The club is currently building its defensive structure around Koundé and Ronald Araújo, and his contract until 2030 reflects a long-term plan. Selling him would only be considered if an exceptional financial offer arrived, as Barcelona aims to remain both competitive in La Liga and financially stable.
Prospects of an agreement between the clubs
Despite Manchester City’s strong interest, negotiations are expected to be difficult. Barcelona are unlikely to consider any deal below €80–90 million. For Guardiola, however, securing Koundé would mean adding a defender who understands modern football at the highest level and could play a central role for years to come.
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