Barcelona could consider allowing Jules Kounde to leave during the January transfer window, with Chelsea and Bayern Munich monitoring the French defender’s situation ahead of the winter market.

According to SPORT, the 27-year-old’s reduced involvement under Hansi Flick has raised questions about his long-term position, while his departure could generate funds to help the Catalans address other squad priorities.

So far in the 2026/27 season, Kounde has accumulated just 458 minutes across eight appearances in all competitions after having lost his place under the German manager.

His reduced role, combined with Barcelona’s interest in strengthening other positions, has placed his future under renewed scrutiny.

Chelsea and Bayern Munich emerge as potential destinations

Speaking of his future, it must be remembered that Chelsea’s interest is not new.

The Premier League club came close to signing Kounde in 2022, but Barcelona eventually secured his services from Sevilla in a deal worth approximately €60 million.

The London club is monitoring developments again in order to strengthen their defensive options.

As per the outlet, Bayern Munich could also revisit their interest after following the Frenchman’s situation during the summer transfer window.

So far, though, neither club has secured an agreement with Barcelona, meaning any potential transfer remains dependent on negotiations, the player’s position and the Catalans’ valuation.

Barcelona could use Kounde’s sale to finance new signings

The financial implications could be just as important as the sporting decision.

Earlier, journalist Mateo Moretto suggested Barcelona could use the defender’s transfer fee to strengthen areas where the club believes it needs more quality.

“Kounde could be one of the pieces with which Barça could make money to, perhaps, sign a centre-forward or another right-back,” he had said.

The possibility of Barcelona using a significant outgoing transfer to create room for further investment is very much alive.

On that note, a recognised centre-forward remains one potential target, while recruiting another right-back would become particularly relevant if Kounde were allowed to depart.

Kounde’s departure could create a defensive problem for Flick

Despite the financial attraction, selling Kounde would carry considerable sporting risks.

His ability to operate in two defensive positions makes him a valuable squad option, particularly during a demanding second half of the season.

Barcelona’s defensive situation also requires consideration, as the club confirmed in October that Kounde had suffered an ankle sprain, while Eric Garcia was diagnosed with a thigh injury.

Xavi Espart then suffered an ankle injury that was reported to sideline him for several weeks.

Consequently, Barcelona would need to assess their defensive depth before sanctioning an exit.