Chelsea maintain interest in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde as Xabi Alonso weighs January move

Chelsea remain strongly interested in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, with manager Xabi Alonso said to be a particular admirer of the France international’s ability to operate in both central defence and at right-back.

Kounde, 28, has endured a difficult season at Barcelona. He has lost his place in the starting line-up and has been unavailable for a month because of an ankle sprain.

The rise of Eric Garcia and Kounde’s inconsistent form have gradually reduced his role under manager Hansi Flick. However, the defender is expected to leave Barcelona’s injury list in the coming days and return to contention for the Catalan club.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Chelsea’s interest in Kounde is increasing, although the player is currently focused on improving his situation at Barcelona and regaining his place in the team.

English outlet TeamTalk also reports that Chelsea remain keen on the French defender. The London club previously asked about the possibility of signing Kounde last summer, according to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, and could renew its efforts during the next winter transfer window.

Chelsea are preparing for the possibility of Malo Gusto leaving, while Kounde’s versatility is understood to be highly valued by Alonso. The defender’s experience at the highest level is seen as a potential asset for a side seeking greater defensive consistency.

Chelsea are fifth in the Premier League with 16 points after 10 rounds.

The club would be prepared to make a significant financial offer to Barcelona for Kounde. His ability to play as a centre-back or full-back is considered especially important, giving Alonso greater flexibility in shaping his defence.

Barcelona would have to assess the situation if Chelsea’s interest develops into a formal proposal. The club would then need to decide whether it believes Kounde can return to his best level or whether to approve a move elsewhere.

At present, Barcelona have neither closed the door on negotiations nor actively opened it. Sporting director Deco and the club’s sporting department are examining the transfer market for a centre-back, but Barcelona will not allow a defender to leave before securing a suitable replacement.

That consideration is especially significant because Kounde was one of the key elements of Flick’s project, particularly during the manager’s first season in charge. Nevertheless, the player himself has not ruled out seeking a new challenge and leaving Barcelona in the coming period.

Kounde is also attracting interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia. However, his representatives have made clear that, if he departs Spotify Camp Nou, his absolute priority would be a move to the Premier League.

The coming weeks are expected to play a decisive role in determining his future. The outcome is likely to depend on the number of minutes Kounde receives and the level he produces after returning to the pitch.