Barcelona key defender’s renewal to be finalised after the summer window | OneFootball

Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that FC Barcelona had reached a verbal agreement with key defender Jules Kounde over a new contract.

The 26-year-old right-back’s current deal expires in 2027. Given his performances and importance in the team, the Blaugrana are keen on rewarding him with an extension – more so with some clubs in the Premier League showing interest in him.

Talks on track, but no immediate renewal

However, according to the latest update from Mundo Deportivo, Kounde’s contract renewal will not be finalised and formalised this summer.

The report states that talks over an extension for the French international are on track and both parties are aligned towards reaching an agreement.

However, the renewal will have to wait until after the summer transfer window as Barcelona currently have other priorities.

New deal after the summer window. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Indeed, the La Liga champions have more pressing matters on their hands such as the registration of new signing Joan Garcia and the activation of key target Nico Williams’ €62 million release clause and his subsequent registration.

For those things to happen, Barça need to free up salary space through the departure of players not in manager Hansi Flick’s plans.

As such, Kounde’s renewal is not seen as a priority task for the moment. However, given that both he and Barcelona are committed to continuing together, the intention is to finalise the renewal once the transfer window closes.

Having joined from Sevilla in 2022, Kounde has grown into a permanent fixture in the Barcelona starting lineup. A renewal, whenever it happens, will be more than well-deserved for the Frenchman.