Report: 22-year-old Chelsea target eyed by Xavi should he become the next Barca manager

Transfer News: Chelsea target Jules Kounde is shortlisted by Xavi Hernandez if he is to appointed as the next Barcelona coach

According to Gerard Romero (h/t Metro), Xavi Hernandez is interested in bringing Chelsea target Jules Kounde to Barcelona should he become their next manager. Joan Laporta has recently dismissed Ronald Koeman following the loss against Rayo Vallecano.

Kounde was heavily targeted by the Blues in the summer transfer window but was not able to reach a deal with Sevilla. Thomas Tuchel’s side are expected to try for the defender yet again in the January window.

It is now suggested that Xavi is set to become the next Blaugrana coach. It is also stated that he has identified certain players to improve the current state of the squad with the 22-year-old being one of them.

Back in July, the Rojiblancos sent a message to the English club that they should meet the value of £59.5m. It is highly unlikely that they change their valuation for someone with interest across Europe.

Considering the Catalan giants’ financial problems, this could be a burden for Laporta to solve. Chelsea could be in the advantage for that reason as the Spanish club needs to sort out their finances.

Tuchel’s team could step up their interest in the French defender as a potential centre-back crisis could arise in the summer. They could lose up to four defenders as their contract is set to expire in 2022, including Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger.

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While the Catalan heavyweights may not be a threat to Chelsea because of their financial situation, things could change in the future. The Champions League winners may need to assess their options and consider the risks and take quick action.