Arsenal and Manchester United have both been made aware of Jules Koundé’s potential availability, with Barcelona increasingly open to selling the France international in 2027.
The 27-year-old has slipped down the pecking order under Hansi Flick this season, despite previously establishing himself as one of Barcelona’s most reliable defenders.
His ability to operate at both right-back and centre-back makes him particularly interesting for Premier League clubs looking for tactical flexibility.
Arsenal and Man United on alert for Koundé
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal and Manchester United have both been alerted to Koundé’s situation, while Chelsea are actively monitoring him and Bayern Munich are also interested.
Barcelona are reportedly prepared to discuss a January move after Koundé started just one La Liga match this season. His reduced role has come despite the club extending his contract until June 2030 only last year. Barcelona’s official announcement described him as a key figure under Flick at the time.
Arsenal’s interest is not entirely new. TEAMtalk reported during the summer that they had already been informed of Koundé’s availability when Barcelona sounded out major European clubs. At that stage, the Catalan side were believed to want more than €50million, with the defender’s substantial wages adding to the overall cost of any deal.
Man United were also contacted in the summer, although their priority then was strengthening at left-back rather than adding another right-sided defender.
Where should Koundé move if he joins the Premier League?
For Arsenal, the appeal is obvious.
Mikel Arteta values defenders who can switch positions and help build attacks from deeper areas. Koundé’s experience at both centre-back and right-back would give Arsenal another high-level option across the back line, particularly during congested periods.
United’s situation is slightly different. Their January priority is expected to be rebuilding the defence more broadly, so Koundé could become relevant if the club decide they need an experienced right-sided defender rather than focusing entirely on left-back.
His age also matters. At 27, Koundé should still have several prime seasons ahead of him, but this would not be a development signing. Arsenal or United would be paying for immediate quality.
The main obstacle is financial. A fee above €50m combined with high wages would require either club to be convinced he is a genuine starter rather than simply useful depth.
Still, if Barcelona are serious about raising funds and Koundé remains outside Flick’s preferred XI, January could create a rare opportunity for both clubs.
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