Milan are the latest to join the race for Koundé

AC Milan have joined Chelsea and Bayern Munich in the race to sign Barcelona defender Jules Koundé, whose place in the starting lineup has diminished under manager Hansi Flick. According to the Italian newspaper Sport, citing the website Calciomercato, Milan are looking for a top-class defender and have Koundé on their shortlist, while Chelsea and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the player's situation. Despite Koundé's increased playing time since the recent international break, Eric Garcia has become Flick's preferred option at right-back, raising questions about the French defender's future at the Catalan club. However, Barcelona have no plans to let Koundé go at the moment, especially since his contract runs until June 2030 and the player has not expressed a desire to leave. The report also suggests that Barcelona might consider selling Alejandro Balde before Koundé if they need to raise funds, given the Spanish full-back's reduced playing time and the rise of João Cancelo and Xavi Espart in the pecking order. Koundé's ability to play at both right-back and center-back adds significant value to the team, but a substantial financial offer could prompt sporting director Deco to reconsider his stance. No club has yet submitted a formal bid, and Koundé is currently sidelined with an injury whose recovery period is uncertain.