Saudi Arabia looking to shop from Barcelona

As the new season approaches, Barcelona find themselves with an abundance of centre-backs. The current roster includes stalwarts like Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez, and rising star Pau Cubarsi.

Additionally, Clement Lenglet and Eric Garcia will return from their loan spells, further crowding the defensive lineup. This surplus has prompted the club to contemplate offloading a few of their defenders to streamline the squad.

For a considerable period, the club didn’t see Jules Kounde as a candidate for departure. However, recent developments suggest otherwise. The French defender has attracted significant interest from Saudi giants Al-Ittihad.

So much that it seems Barca have not entirely ruled out his sale. This potential move is influenced by several factors, including the club’s financial situation and the ambitious plans of the PIF-owned club.

Kounde set for Saudi Arabia?

Al Ittihad’s desire to bolster their defense has led them to target Kounde as a prime acquisition. According to Marca, the club views the Frenchman as an ideal signing who could thrive in the Middle Eastern landscape.

Ramon Planes, Al-Ittihad’s sporting director and a former Blaugrana chief, believes that the time is ripe to pursue the deal due to Barcelona‘s ongoing financial challenges.

Meanwhile, Barca president Joan Laporta has publicly stated that the club does not require a significant sale to balance their books.

However, there is an underlying sense that they might consider substantial offers for players, especially given the club’s complex financial situation. Despite the president’s reassurances, Barcelona’s economic health might necessitate entertaining offers for valuable assets like Kounde.

Their defensive lineup is full of talent. In addition to Kounde, the team also includes Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez, and Pau Cubarsi, with Clement Lenglet and Eric Garcia due to…

Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/not-raphinha-saudi-arabia-looking-to-shop-from-barcelona/

Author : Martina Alcheva

Publish date : 2024-06-08 15:03:14

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