BREAKING NEWS: Coming From Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United Looks Set To Sign Barcelona Star Centre-Back Who Can Also Play As A Right-Back. According To A Reliable Source, “We Are Told That Ineos Aim To Bring In A Centre-Back Who Can Also Play At Right-Back When Needed, And They Feel That Kounde Fits This Requirement Perfectly. Manchester United Have Made Contact With Barcelona And It Look Like The Deal Will Go Through As Manchester United Are Reportedly Ready To Meet With Barcelona Asking Price Of €50m. “Fits Requirement Perfectly”: United Planning Blockbuster €50m Swoop On Barcelona For “Versatile” Gem.

Manchester United faces the pressing need to strengthen their defensive line following a challenging season marked by subpar performances and the potential exit of several key defenders.

This past season, the team’s defensive woes were starkly highlighted as they conceded a whopping 85 goals across various competitions, tying for the most goals allowed in the Champions League group stages. Additionally, the team suffered the setback of conceding three or more goals in 15 different matches.

With Raphael Varane confirming his exit and Jonny Evans potentially not having his contract renewed as it expires in June, the defensive gaps become more evident. Speculations also suggest possible departures for both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, which underscores the urgency for a new recruit, particularly a right-sided center-back, to complement Lisandro Martinez.

The anticipated defensive shake-up includes the right-back position. Diogo Dalot has established himself as the first-choice right-back, but Aaron Wan-Bissaka might be on his way out after a season hampered by injuries and a lack of development in his ball-handling abilities.

Given financial constraints, Manchester United is ideally looking for a player who can adeptly handle duties as both a center-back and a right-back. Jules Kounde of Barcelona has emerged as a potential transfer target who could meet these criteria perfectly. Reports from Football Transfers indicate that Kounde is considering a move this summer, which would be a strategic fit for United’s needs.

Although Kounde prefers playing as a center-back, he was often positioned as a right-back under former Barcelona coach Xavi, a role that wasn’t entirely to his liking. The 25-year-old’s technical proficiency and agility make him a suitable candidate for playing in both positions. Barcelona’s asking price for Kounde is around €50 million.

The narrative around Manchester United’s interest in Kounde is growing, with FootballTransfers stating that United sees him as an ideal addition. Barcelona’s financial needs might prompt them to sell Kounde if an appropriate offer is made, and the player himself is open to a new challenge away from the Nou Camp.

Kounde’s track record last season included 48 appearances across all competitions, where he scored two goals, provided a couple of assists, and was integral in achieving 19 clean sheets.

As Manchester United contemplates reinforcing their defense with more than one center-back, Kounde stands out as a prime candidate. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen if the club can secure the necessary funds to finalize such a high-profile signing.