{
  "id": 848892,
  "title": "Veteran defender no longer untouchable as Barcelona open to major offers",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/veteran-defender-no-longer-untouchable-as-barcelona-open-to-major",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-14T07:40:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/veteran-defender-no-longer-untouchable-074000541.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Veteran defender Jules Kounde's status at Barcelona is no longer considered untouchable, with the club opening up to major offers for the French player before the transfer window concludes. While Barcelona is not actively seeking to sell Kounde, they are prepared to evaluate significant proposals should one come their way. The primary factor is Kounde's position, as he currently aims to retain his role at Barcelona and believes he can secure a more prominent position under manager Hansi Flick. A crucial discussion between Kounde and Flick is anticipated to clarify his role within the squad. For now, Barcelona maintains an open door for a potential late transfer. Kounde's influence on the team has diminished, with fellow defender Eric Garcia possibly taking precedence in the defensive line. Barcelona's pursuit of another centre-back further complicates Kounde's standing. This uncertainty has prompted Barcelona's decision to entertain offers. Kounde recently signed a contract extension through 2030 and commands a lucrative salary. From the club's perspective, a major offer might be more appealing if Kounde is not guaranteed a first-team role. However, Barcelona will not force the defender out but will certainly consider substantial offers. As of now, such an opportunity has not materialized. Arsenal, in particular, is showing strong interest in Barcelona's defender, with the Premier League club ready to pay a substantial transfer fee. But they are unlikely to proceed with a formal bid until they receive confirmation that Kounde is willing to leave the Spanish club. Kounde has not expressed a desire to depart just yet, and his upcoming meeting with Flick could prove pivotal in determining whether his position shifts.",
  "summary": "Jules Kounde is no longer considered untouchable at Barcelona, with the club willing to listen to major offers for the French defender before the transfer window closes.According to SPORT, even though...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "Barcelona eye surprise €80m-rated defender who could be perfect for Flick",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/barcelona-eye-surprise-80m-rated-defender-who-could-be-perfect-for",
        "published": "2026-08-14T07:20:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}