Barcelona gears up to face Real Madrid
In another edition of the Spanish classic, Barcelona has reinforced its team in all lines in preparation for the upcoming competitions.
However, the dream team planned by Xavi is not complete yet. The 'Barza' coach still wants a player who, until a few days ago, seemed to have moved away from the 'Culé' radar.
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According to the digital media outlet Sport, Barcelona hasn't said its last word regarding Jules Koundé. Apparently, the Frenchman had everything set with Chelsea and would join Thomas Tuchel's team. However, the Barcelona leadership would do everything possible to please Xavi.
It is important to note that the 'Blues' were going to pay 65 million for the Sevilla defender, and the negotiation seemed closed. However, this payment was going to be in installments and based on objectives. For this reason, Joan Laporta and his board sought to play their last card by offering a lower amount, but without fractions.
How is this possible? This question has only one answer: Barcelona's "financial levers." This is what has allowed them to make millionaire signings in recent weeks. In that sense, Sevilla would be considering the offer made by the blaugranas.
Furthermore, Koundé has shown that he would have no problem playing under Xavi if his club determines it that way. Therefore, the next few hours will be crucial to determine if the French defender finally joins the ranks of the azulgranas.
Why does Xavi want to have Jules Koundé?
As it is remembered, the coach of the Catalan team demanded the signing of central defenders who would give him security in the last line since it was his headache last season. That's why Andreas Christensen was chosen to strengthen the defense. However, Xavi Hernández was still looking for a companion for the Danish player. For this reason, the name of Jules Koundé was strongly rumored in recent weeks.
What is Barcelona's "plan B" in case Koundé's deal doesn't go through?
While they are still awaiting Sevilla's final response, the blaugrana team already has a plan in case the offer for the French center-back doesn't work out. Recently, sources close to the club reported that the club's leadership has already contacted Athletic to sign Íñigo Martínez.
The 31-year-old defender would be the "trump card" in case the deal with Koundé doesn't materialize.
When does Barcelona play?
Barcelona will play against Real Madrid today at 22:00 (Peruvian time) at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This will be a good test to measure the collective capacity of Xavi's team with its new signings.