Report: Liverpool eye €70m right-back as succession plan takes shape | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Koundé as Alexander-Arnold Successor – But Challenges Mount

Liverpool are plotting their future beyond Trent Alexander-Arnold, and the scale of their ambition is unmistakable. According to a report by El Nacional, the club is preparing to submit a significant offer—potentially worth up to €70 million—for Barcelona’s Jules Koundé. On the surface, it’s a bold and proactive move. Dig deeper, though, and it becomes clear that securing the Frenchman’s signature will be anything but straightforward.

Koundé’s Rising Star and Versatility

Jules Koundé has enjoyed a resurgence at right-back this season, proving himself more than just a makeshift option. Having made his name at Sevilla as a centre-half, the 26-year-old now thrives on the flank, showcasing defensive solidity and an attacking instinct that few saw coming.

His numbers this season speak volumes—four goals and eight assists across all competitions—highlighted by a dramatic extra-time winner in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey triumph over Real Madrid. That moment of brilliance wasn’t just a goal; it was a reminder of his big-match temperament and technical ability.

Named in the LaLiga Team of the Season in both 2021/22 and 2022/23, Koundé is on track to earn similar honours again. It’s no wonder Liverpool and Arne Slot have been impressed. The report states the Reds are “already preparing to submit offers that could reach 70 million euros.”

Photo IMAGO

Barriers to a Deal

However, the reality of luring Koundé to Anfield is layered with complexity. Firstly, Barcelona have no intention of selling. His form under Hansi Flick has restored both his confidence and his reputation, and the club, despite financial pressures, are reluctant to part ways with a key player.

Even with their well-publicised monetary issues, El Nacional claim that “even if tantalising offers of around €70m are received the club will hold firm and say no.” That’s a damning blow to Liverpool’s hopes.

Secondly, Koundé himself appears content. “On a personal level, Koundé is happy in Barcelona,” the report explains. “He feels valued, has regained his best form under Flick, and has also put behind him the moments of uncertainty he experienced last season, when he played out of his natural position.”

Transfer Battle With Arsenal Adds Further Uncertainty

Liverpool may not be alone in their pursuit either. Arsenal are reportedly circling, with their interest described as “particularly strong.” In a market where top-tier right-backs are scarce, competition from other elite clubs only further complicates the landscape.

Should Koundé even consider a move, he’ll have options—likely with Champions League football and domestic contention assured. Liverpool can promise both, but in the face of stiff competition and the player’s own contentment, persuading him will require more than money.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this is both encouraging and frustrating. On one hand, the ambition to replace a generational talent like Trent Alexander-Arnold with someone of Koundé’s calibre shows serious intent. Liverpool aren’t interested in simply patching the hole—they want to fill it with steel, quality and proven European pedigree.

But is this the best use of €70m when other areas, like attack, central midfield depth and left-sided defence, also require strengthening? Especially when Barcelona aren’t selling and Koundé doesn’t seem keen to leave.

Slot has a tricky balancing act. He must prepare for life after Trent while still convincing the club’s talisman that Anfield is the place to write his next chapter. If the Dutchman sees Koundé as that future, then fans will hope FSG back him to the hilt. But they’ll also know, deep down, that this one might just slip through.