Chelsea are reportedly ready to revive their long-standing interest in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde in 2027, but Manchester United and Liverpool are also monitoring the France international.

Chelsea have tracked Kounde since 2025, when reports suggested he was unsettled by being used at right-back in Catalonia. He has made only three starts for Hansi Flick so far in the 2026/27 season.

However, Kounde’s limited appearances have partly been attributed to his extended summer break following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His position at Barcelona was also strengthened recently when he extended his contract until 2030.

Kounde remains valued at around €60M, a fee that falls within Chelsea’s budget. The former Sevilla defender’s availability at that price is expected to attract interest from several leading Premier League clubs.

Manchester United and Liverpool have joined Chelsea in keeping tabs on the 27-year-old, while Arsenal have also previously been linked with him despite already possessing considerable defensive strength.

The competition for Kounde could make the situation more demanding for Xabi Alonso in 2027. Alonso spent heavily during the summer to strengthen his squad, adding Marco Palestra as right-back cover and bringing in fellow new defenders Maxence Lacroix and Pep Chavarria.

Other players were moved on during that reshaping of the squad, but Kounde continues to be viewed as a potential target. Chelsea’s previous interest and the player’s estimated €60M valuation mean they could return for him, although they will face Premier League competition.