Barcelona Focusing On Getting A Deal Done For This Sevilla Defender: Should Xavi Snap Him Up?

In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo claimed that Barcelona are focusing on getting a deal done for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde this summer. It has been mentioned that Barca head coach Xavi is prioritizing on sealing a move for the French centre-half during this summer transfer period.

Kounde’s Solid Campaign At The Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium

Kounde experienced another solid season at Sevilla as he continued to put in a series of dominant performances at the centre of their defence. The Paris-born defensive ace made 44 appearances for the Andalusian outfit in the previous campaign, scoring three goals and picking up one assist in all competitions.

The 23-year-old was a consistent performer on the defensive third of the field after he averaged 1.3 tackles, 0.7 interceptions and 3.1 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from the back, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 88.9% in the top tier of Spanish football (stats via whoscored).

Should Barcelona Head Coach Xavi Snap Kounde Up This Summer?

Kounde has been a rock at the back for the Seville-based outfit as he is usually quick to spot the danger inside his half. He is a good tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions for his side at the back.

The French defender doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball to clear the danger when required. He is also quite proficient when playing his way out with the ball from inside his half.

Kounde will only get better in the coming seasons which is why Barca should try everything they can to lure him to the Nou Camp in this off-season. He would no doubt strengthen Xavi‘s defensive department and might serve as an upgrade over Eric Garcia who struggled to be consistent at the Catalan club last season.

Kounde has already proven his worth in Spanish football which makes him a safe bet to be a success story at Barca. Therefore, Xavi would be wise to snap him up before the start of the new campaign.