Manchester United and Chelsea keen to sign £65m-rated Barcelona star

Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona star Jules Kounde this summer. 

The 24-year-old joined the Catalans for around £48 million in the previous summer window from Sevilla. 

He has been a key member of Xavi Hernandez’s side this season, making 38 appearances in all competitions. 

However, the Frenchman is dissatisfied with his role in Xavi’s team, per SPORT. 

Kounde was initially signed to play alongside Ronald Araujo in central defence, but he has mostly been used as a right-back. 

The ex-Bordeaux star is likely to face more competition for places, with Inigo Martinez set to arrive at Camp Nou this summer.

Barcelona are reluctant to sell Kounde, but a £65m fee could convince them to change their stance.

Man United will be looking to sign a new defender, with Harry Maguire expected to leave Old Trafford this summer.  

The Red Devils currently have Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as their first-choice centre-backs, but the former has turned 30 and only has a few years left at the top level of football. 

Chelsea were close to signing Kounde last summer, but their hesitation allowed the Catalans to hijack the move. 

However, they are reportedly willing to rekindle their interest in the France international, with Thiago Silva’s future at Stamford Bridge uncertain. 

Reports earlier this month suggested the 38-year-old wants to terminate his contract at the English club to return to Fluminense.