Pranav Nair
Duncan Castles: Manchester United make informal contact for Jules Kounde
Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast, Duncan Castles has revealed that Manchester United have held informal talks about signing Sevilla star Jules Kounde.
Bringing in a new central defender is a priority for the Red Devils this summer. Kounde is amongst a number of players on our radar. Currently with the French squad at the Euros, he is one of the brightest young defenders on the continent.
“Kounde has been on that list of centre-backs that they want to solve that Harry Maguire problem for some time now.”
Castles goes on to reveal that United have already contacted Sevilla regarding Kounde. While the talks may have been informal, United have made an offer of €45m for the player. Sevilla, understandably, are less than thrilled with the offer and have duly refused.
“They have proposed they would offer €45m as a transfer fee for the player. Sevilla aren’t happy with that. Their sporting director Monchi said there’s no way they’ll sell the player for €45m.”
Sevilla received a bigger offer from Manchester City last summer and feel they do not have any reason to accept a lower valuation this summer. Monchi is one of the market’s biggest wheeler-dealers and appear to be laying the groundwork to receive top dollar for the player.
“It looks like the valuation that Monchi will sell at is €65m but there is a question over that. He has been telling certain agents that it would take €80m to get Kounde in this window.”
No lack of interest
City instead signed Ruben Dias last summer and the Portuguese international has gone on to have a telling impact on their team. As things stand, they are not expected to return for the 22-year-old Kounde this summer. (h/t The Express)
Another side who are in the fray for his signature are Chelsea. Thomas Tuchel is eyeing a new defender as a long-term replacement for the ageing Thiago Silva and Kounde is at the top of the German’s shortlist. (h/t The Sun)
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Kounde was Sevilla’s club-record signing, having joined from Bordeaux in 2019. It is fair to say that the Spaniards sure got their money’s worth. With his talent now making waves, there is little chance of them weakening their hand in negotiations.
