Exit-linked Barcelona defender could return to his original position this season – report

The future of Jules Kounde has become a subject of much discussion soon after his return to the Barcelona camp, after an extended summer break.

The right-back was a part of the French team that reached the semifinal in the World Cup. And as he gears up for the season ahead, he has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou.

However, Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Kounde’s exit is not on the anvil right now, despite the player being linked with a move to Arsenal lately. In fact, the defender may have a change of roles this coming season.

According toMundo Deportivo, Barcelona have ‘accepted’ that Kounde can operate as a centre-back in the coming season.

Kounde may have to play a more versatile role in defence this season. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

This is major departure from the last few seasons that has seen the Frenchman operate in a right-back role, even becoming the club’s number one choice in the position.

Last season, however, Kounde’s performances were far from consistent. And keeping that in mind, Hansi Flick could consider him an option in the centre-back role, which used to be his original position.

Kounde is likely to be considered as an alternative for Ronald Araujo, who left the club to join Liverpool on a season-long loan deal.

Kounde’s long-term future remains doubtful. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Apart from the obvious Araujo angle, Barcelona do require someone like Kounde operating at centre-back rather than right-back.

For one, the Catalans are well stacked in right-back now, with Joao Cancelo expected to join and Xavi Espart impressing Hansi Flick during pre-season. Eric Garcia, too, has done well whenever he has deputised for the role.

Considering the fact that Kounde himself has struggled with consistency lately, a centre-back role could be a much more logical option for the Frenchman.

That being said, Kounde’s nature as a right-footed defender means the former Sevilla star will not become a starter, if he is indeed considered a centre-back. That is because he will compete directly with Pau Cubarsi rather than being a partner.

In the left-sided centre-back role, Flick has a clear option in Gerard Martin, with Alvaro Cortes likely to serve as an alternative, provided he stays at the club and Barcelona fail to sign a new centre-back.