According to Mundo Deportivo, Jules Kounde has no interest in a move to Tottenham or Newcastle, as he wants to join Barcelona instead.
What’s the story?
Well, this is a big blow for Antonio Conte and Eddie Howe.
Newcastle’s interest is mentioned in Mundo Deportivo‘s story, whereas it was Super Deporte who claimed that Tottenham are desperate to sign Kounde.
Now, however, the centre-back looks set to ignore the Premier League in favour of Barcelona.
It is said that Newcastle – and also Chelsea – are willing to pay Kounde’s €90m (£77m) release clause, but the France international has told Sevilla to negotiate with Barcelona.
Interestingly, Barcelona cannot actually afford that £77m sum, so the two Spanish sides are now in talks over how to structure a deal.
Mundo Deportivo believe Joan Laporta – President of Barcelona – is directly in charge of the pursuit.
Xavi is desperate to sign Kounde, as he no longer believes Gerard Pique is capable of performing at the highest level – the Spaniard is now 35 years of age, and prone to injuries.
Tottenham & Newcastle haven’t lost out to Barcelona just yet
While this news isn’t ideal for Spurs or the Magpies, it isn’t over just yet.
Barcelona are struggling financially, and they haven’t even been able to register Andreas Christensen or Franck Kessie yet, despite signing the pair weeks ago according to SPORT.
Sales are needed before those registrations can happen, so we can’t see a realistic way in which Barcelona can satisfy Sevilla’s asking price for Kounde – he is far too expensive.
Of course, Tottenham and Newcastle will still need to convince Kounde to come to the Premier League if Barcelona cannot strike a deal with Sevilla, which seems likely to be challenging.
Nevertheless, all hope is not lost just yet – be sure to keep an eye on this saga.
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