Barcelona have declared interest in Servilla defender Jules Kounde.

They want the star to take over from Gerard Pique. Kounde’s contract at Sevilla runs until 2024.

Report from Mundo Deportivo has it that Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez wants to build his defence around Jules kounde.

The 23-year-old’s release clause with Servilla is around €90m but could further be reduced.

Chelsea FC are said to be leading the race to sign the Frenchman but the Catalan club is fit for the challenge.

The Stamford Bridge club tried to sign Kounde last summer but Servilla refused to sell.

However, the race to sign Kounde is very much open, as it is only the player that will determine where he will play next season.

Kounde joined Sevilla from Bordeaux in 2019 and has become one of the finest centre-backs in Europe.