Kounde reveals who convinced him to join Barcelona

Barcelona’s latest signing and France international Jules Kounde in a recent statement has revealed who convinced him to move to Camp Nou.

Kounde was closed to joining Chelsea this summer, with the Blues having reached an agreement with his former club Sevilla.

The French defender would however go on to stall the deal before he dump the Blues to reach an agreement with the Catalans, thus landing a big transfer blow on the EPL side.

Barcelona on Thursday announced the signing of Kounde from Sevilla, who is Xavi’s sixth signing of the summer following the arrival of Pablo Torre, Frank Kessie, Andreas Christensen, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski.

Speaking after his announcement as Barcelona’s new player, Kounde said that it was manager Xavi Hernández, who convinced him to move to Spain.

Kounde said, “Xavi is a big reason as to why I’m here. His spiel convinced me, I’m excited to start working with the team.

“It’s clear that we see football in the same way.”

He added, “I’m really proud, grateful. I can’t wait to join the team and start this Barcelona story.

“I say thanks to Sevilla, but of course, Barça is a top step in my career – so here I want to win all competitions.”