Jules Kounde has no intention of leaving Barcelona despite growing interest from Premier League clubs ahead of the January transfer window.
The French defender has found himself out of favour under head coach Hansi Flick, losing his regular starting berth in the Barcelona backline in recent months.
Chelsea have been among the clubs linked with a potential January move for Kounde as they continue searching for solutions to their struggling defensive unit.
Despite speculation surrounding his future, sources inside the Barcelona camp suggest a January departure remains extremely unlikely for the defender.
Spanish journalist Juan Jesus has reported directly from inside the club, providing clarity on where Kounde, Flick, and Barcelona collectively stand on the situation.
“Several clubs are very interested in Jules Kounde, especially in the Premier League, where Xabi Alonso is a big admirer of the player,” Jesus wrote.
“However, neither Hansi Flick nor Kounde himself are considering a departure at this time. The Frenchman feels very comfortable at Barcelona, is aware that he’s not at his best level, and wants to regain his starting spot at all costs.”
Jesus also addressed Flick’s own position on the matter, confirming the German coach has not shut the door on the defender despite his current squad status.
“For Flick, although he’s currently behind Eric García in the rotation, the door isn’t closed, and he’ll give him his opportunities,” Jesus added.
Kounde currently finds himself second in the pecking order to Eric García, a situation that has surprised many observers given his quality and experience at the club.
The former Sevilla defender has been a reliable performer for Barcelona since his arrival, and his current dip in form is widely considered a temporary blip rather than a long-term decline.
Flick’s willingness to give Kounde opportunities means the player has genuine reason for optimism about reclaiming his first-team role before the season reaches its conclusion.
A January exit now appears firmly off the table, and attention will likely shift to the summer window if Kounde’s situation at the club has not improved by that point.
The post Jules Kounde Determined To Fight For Barcelona Place Despite Strong Premier League Interest appeared first on Gooner Daily.
