Barcelona are reportedly keeping tabs on Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde ahead of this summer's transfer window.
The 23-year-old has been a key figure at the heart of the defence this season, helping Los Rojiblancos keep 17 clean sheets in 35 appearances across all competitions.
According to Sport, Barcelona head coach Xavi is an admirer of the France international and he is keen to lure the defender to Camp Nou.
The report adds that Xavi is aware of Kounde's high asking price, believed to be the player's £68.7m release clause, which Barca would be unable to afford given their recent financial difficulties.
La Liga rivals Real Madrid as well as Premier League trio Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the centre-back, who is under contract at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium until June 2024.
Kounde is in contention to start for Sevilla against Barcelona when the two sides lock horns in Catalonia for their La Liga showdown on Sunday.
Oliver Thomas
