Jules Kounde signs! Barcelona seal new long-term contract for defender after Man City transfer scare

Amidst the rumours linking Kounde to City, the French defender has chosen to stay at Barca and, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, he has penned a deal until 2030. The club and the lawyers of player have approved the documents, and the formalities are expected to be completed soon.

Kounde's current contract runs until 2027 but talk of a summer transfer surfaced with City reportedly keen to get their hands on the French international after ruling out a move for Tino Livramento, who was being considered a replacement for Kyle Walker. However, Barca have now been successful in convincing the 26-year-old to stay at the club for another five years.

Kounde played 53 games for Barca last season and scored four goals in all competitions, including a brilliant goal in the Copa del Rey final victory against Clasico rivals Real Madrid.

Kounde is currently a part of Barca's pre-season regime. The Catalans will play their La Liga opener against Mallorca on August 16, but prior to that will face Como in the Joan Gamper Trophy on August 10.