BREAKING NEWS: Manchester United Launch £100m Move for Barcelona Star After Carrick Gives Green Light for First Summer Signing
Manchester United are reportedly preparing a major statement of intent ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, with fresh reports claiming the club has submitted an opening bid worth close to £100 million for a Barcelona superstar.
The move is said to have been approved by Michael Carrick, who has already begun shaping the profile of United’s first major summer addition as the club looks to rebuild and rebalance the squad.
According to reports from Fichajes, United are closely monitoring the situation of Jules Koundé, with the French international emerging as a serious target should conditions align in the coming months.
While the Red Devils are widely expected to prioritise midfield reinforcements and a new left-sided attacker, the possibility of strengthening the defensive unit — particularly the full-back positions — has not been ruled out, especially if Champions League qualification is secured.
With INEOS overseeing a structural reset at Old Trafford and a potential return to a traditional back-four system under a permanent manager, versatility and tactical flexibility have become key factors in recruitment decisions. That is where Koundé’s profile has caught United’s attention.
Why United Are Watching Koundé Closely
Jules Koundé has long been regarded as one of the elite defenders in European football. Although naturally a centre-back, he has excelled at right-back for Barcelona and France, combining defensive solidity with pace, composure on the ball, and positional intelligence.
At 27, he offers a blend of peak-level experience and reliability, making him an attractive option for clubs seeking instant impact.
Despite being under contract at Barcelona until 2030, Koundé is no longer viewed as completely untouchable by the Catalan giants.
Financial pressures continue to influence Barcelona’s transfer strategy, and the club is believed to be open to listening to offers if it helps balance the books and reduce wage commitments.
Barcelona have reportedly placed an asking price of around €80 million (£69.5m) on Koundé, though they believe interest from Premier League clubs could drive that figure higher.
Manchester United are understood to be among the teams tracking his situation, with early discussions already taking place behind the scenes.
Koundé himself is not actively pushing for an exit, but sources suggest he would consider a move if Barcelona make it clear they are willing to part ways.
United’s Defensive Situation and Transfer Priorities
While Koundé’s quality is undeniable, Manchester United are not currently short of options at right-back. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are both capable of filling that role, meaning a move for Koundé would only become a priority if one of those players were to depart.
United’s more pressing needs remain in midfield and on the left wing, areas that INEOS see as crucial to restoring balance and consistency to the squad.
Spending close to £70–100 million on a defender could be viewed as an inefficient use of resources unless squad dynamics change significantly.
However, Carrick’s reported approval suggests United are at least open to making a marquee defensive signing if the opportunity represents long-term value rather than a luxury addition.
A Deal Still in the Balance
For now, no final decision has been made by Barcelona or Manchester United. The Spanish club are expected to remain receptive to serious offers, while United continue to assess their priorities heading into what promises to be a defining summer.
Whether Koundé becomes United’s first major signing or remains a monitored option will likely depend on player sales, Champions League qualification, and how aggressively the club chooses to reshape its squad.
One thing is certain: Manchester United are preparing for a bold summer — and big names are firmly on the table.
