Manchester United have reportedly contacted Barcelona about the availability of defender Jules Kounde. Kounde has been ever-present for Xavi's men this season and has played a crucial role in their La Liga triumph.
The 24-year-old is naturally a centre-back but has shown his versatility when featuring as a right-back when needed. According to AS, Erik ten Hag has been impressed with this aspect of Kounde's game and has now made the first approach to Barca.
It is understood Xavi is 'not in a position to guarantee' the Frenchman regular starts next season and Kounde is 'by no means indispensable'. ALSO READ: Ten Hag gives Martinez injury update The defender's Barcelona contract is due to expire in 2027 thus United would need to pay a substantial fee if they wished to secure his services.
Elsewhere, the Reds could be set for further competition in their battle for another defender. In a report by German media outlet Kicker, Real Madrid are set to challenge United for Bayern Munich star Benjamin Pavard.