Mizgan Masani
Manchester United are interested in signing Jules Kounde, who wishes to leave Barcelona
As per Spanish outlet Nacional, via Football365 (h/t Manchester Evening News), Manchester United are the frontrunners to sign Barcelona and France defender Jules Kounde in the coming transfer window.
The report also reveals that the former Sevilla star apparently wants to leave Barcelona. The La Liga champions are said to be taken aback by this decision from the Frenchman having only signed him last summer by warding off interest from Chelsea.
Kounde is a versatile defender who is comfortable playing as a centre-back and a right-back. He has exhibited that versatility for both club and country.
If we look at the numbers, the 24-year-old made 38 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona this season – 21 as a right-back and 17 as a centre-back. He got a goal and four assists playing as a former too (Transfermarkt).
About his attributes, Kounde possesses exceptional passing numbers from the back, he is good in aerial duels despite not being very big in height (180cm) and he reads the game exceptionally to break opposition attacks.
The French international has won 65% of his aerial duels in the league this season, has a pass accuracy rate of 88% and won 55% of the total duels involved in (Sofascore).
Given his versatility and how good he is as a player, it would be nice if United find a way to sign the 24-year-old this summer. His addition would add steel and sheer quality at the back. Erik ten Hag can even play three at the back with Kounde as one of the wide centre-backs with the freedom to move forward with the ball.
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United are expected to be in the Champions League next season (need only one point from two games to confirm that). Expanding the depth and quality of the squad with signings like Kounde should be on their minds.
