Sources: Liverpool told £60m Jules Kounde offer could be accepted
Liverpool have been told Barcelona will listen to offers worth £60million or more for Jules Kounde, sources have told Football Insider.
The 27-year-old has dropped out of Hansi Flick's starting XI in recent weeks, fueling speculation that he could seek a move away, and placing high-profile clubs on alert.
Andoni Iraola's side are believed to be keeping a close eye on the right-back's situation, and could be tempted to make a move if they are made aware of his availability.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, any deal for Kounde could be difficult for Liverpool to pull off due to Barcelona demanding a significant fee.
The France international has been an unused substitue in each of Barcelona's last three La Liga games, but is still held in very high regard at the Nou Camp.
Liverpool are believed to be among Kounde's strong admirers amid concerns about their right-back options, but whether there is a deal to be done remains to be seen.
Could Liverpool make a move for Jules Kounde?
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider last summer that the Cityzens had eyed a move for Kounde but his wages could prove an issue.
One year on, Liverpool have joined the race to sign the Barcelona star, but there are still concerns that the money involved could make any deal difficult to pull off.
With Barcelona set to demand upwards of £60million for Kounde's signature, it will be a test of how highly Liverpool value the defender if they are to make a move.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Kounde is a potential option for Liverpool, he's a potential options for a number of clubs.
"He's been a top-class performer for club and country, but he has lost his place as a regular in that Barcelona side and has admited he needs to work has to regain his place.
"It's a difficult deal to do for Liverpool, because he's under contract at Barcelona until 2030, so they will be expecting a big fee if they are to open the door for a move away.
"It would take a substancial offer for Barcelona to consider selling, they're looking for around £60million plus for Kounde, who has plenty of experience playing at the highest level."
Why do Liverpool want a new right-back?
Liverpool have been eyeing potential right-back signings since before the summer window opened, with Arne Slot having been determined to strengthen the position.
Since Iraola took over, strengthening in other areas took priority, but the Reds are still of the belief that adding a new right-back to their squad could be key in the coming windows.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider earlier this year that Liverpool are concerned about Jeremie Frimpong's performances since his arrival.
The Netherlands international has struggled to impress since his move to Anfield, sparking plans to strengthen in his position and potentially to replace him.
Kounde is one of a number of options on Liverpool's radar at right-back, and work is being done behind the scenes ahead of a potential swoop in January.