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Chelsea Offers Transfer Better than Koundé: Florentino Asks but Barça Keeps Him

The player wants a change of scenery and Barça is waiting expectantly.

Barça, always on the lookout to market opportunities, has shown interest in improving its squad, especially in defense. In recent years, Jules Koundé has been one of the mainstays of the Catalonian team, providing solidity in the rearguard. However, the Catalonians could be exploring options to further strengthen that sector.

The need to strengthen defense has become more evident in the face of tough competition in La Liga and Europe. Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, is also searching for opportunities, but Barça's financial and sporting situation has forced him to be very cautious. Despite this, the Catalonian club remains attractive for world-class players.

Jules Koundé hugging Ronald Araújo during an FC Barcelona match
Jules Koundé hugs Ronald Araújo | Europa Press

An Unexpected Goal for Everyone

Chelsea full-back Reece James has emerged as a potential high-profile transfer for Barça. James has been a key player at Stamford Bridge, but injuries have plagued his recent career. This could open the door to a change of scenery, and the Catalonian club is reportedly keeping a close eye on his situation.

At 24, Reece James is considered one of the best full-backs in Europe when he is in top shape. Both defensively and offensively, his ability gives him a versatility that would fit perfectly into Barça's style of play. In addition, his arrival would allow Koundé, who's played as a right-back on certain occasions, to concentrate on his natural position as a center-back.

Reece James in the Chelsea shirt while saluting
Reece James waves to the camera at a Chelsea match | Europa Press

Barça Competes with Chelsea for the Right-back

Despite Barça's interest, Chelsea wouldn't easily let a player as valuable as James go. However, both the player's injuries and his ambition to continue his career in an elite team could facilitate an exit. Barça, with their history of success and the possibility of competing at the highest level, would be an attractive option for the Englishman.

In financial terms, Barça would have to manoeuvre shrewdly to pull off such a deal. The club's financial problems are still present, but recent management improvements could allow for such a transfer. Florentino Pérez, for his part, has been closely watching these moves, as Real Madrid is also looking to improve their defensive lineup.