Varun Pai
Manchester United handed blow by Real Madrid in race to secure a transfer for Sevilla ace Jules Kounde
According to Defensa Central (h/t The Sun), Real Madrid are touted to complete a transfer for Sevilla star Jules Kounde ahead of Manchester United.
The 22-year-old has become one of the most important players at the La Liga club in recent seasons. In fact, the centre-back has also established himself on the international stage as he recently played a crucial role in helping France win the UEFA Nations League.
The Frenchman was touted to move this summer itself, with a £43million transfer to Chelsea on the cards. However, a deal failed to materialize after the Spanish outfit demanded £60million for their prized asset.
Although the Blues are still interested in the player, it was claimed recently that the defender would prefer a move to Manchester United rather than the West London outfit. This was a huger boost for the Red Devils as they could use some quality young options in their defensive line.
Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire are set to turn 29 next year, while the likes of Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, and Phil Jones are also above the age of 25. Moreover, there is no certainty on the future of the latter duo as they have hardly featured this season.
Thus, while signing Kounde could provide Ole Gunnar Solskjaer with a lot of quality, Real Madrid are ready to ruin those plans.
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This is because the French international has quickly shot up the wishlist of the 13-time European Champions. Moreover, they are also confident that they can complete a player-plus-cash deal for the centre-back. Regardless, United could still try and lure the player to Old Trafford as Kounde looks to leave Sevilla next summer.
