Jules Koundé could shape a large part of FC Barcelona’s defensive market this summer. According to SPORT, the club is willing to listen to significant offers for the French defender. And Deco, aware of that possibility, is already working on alternatives to avoid being caught unprepared.
The first name to emerge is Denzel Dumfries, the Inter Milan right-back. According to Carlos Monfort, Deco recently met with Ali Barat, the Dutchman’s representative. His name surfaced informally and would only become a real target if Koundé eventually leaves.
The second option is Marc Cucurella, the Chelsea defender and former La Masia graduate. Barça remain interested and his entourage continues to maintain regular contact with Deco. Although he is naturally a left-back, he is being linked to a much broader defensive restructuring plan.
Dumfries, the natural replacement on the right
Dumfries appears to be the most logical option if Barça lose Koundé this summer. The Frenchman has established himself as the team’s starting right-back despite originally arriving as a centre-back. His departure would therefore require a specialist replacement for that position.
The Dutch international offers a very different profile, one that is more physical, direct and attack-minded. He can operate as both a right-back and a wing-back, giving Hansi Flick flexibility across different tactical systems. His international experience would also allow him to adapt quickly to high-pressure environments.
However, the operation is still far from being activated. Current reports suggest that Barça will only move seriously if Koundé receives a major offer. Deco wants to be prepared, but he has no intention of accelerating negotiations before the Frenchman’s future becomes clearer.
Cucurella enters a different conversation
Cucurella’s situation is not directly tied to the right-back position. He is naturally a left-back, can operate as a wing-back and also contribute in more advanced defensive roles. That versatility makes him attractive as part of a wider defensive overhaul.
According to reports, the Chelsea defender would be open to leaving Stamford Bridge this summer. The London club would be willing to discuss a transfer if the right offer arrives. Barça and Atlético Madrid are among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.
Barça already have Alejandro Balde as their first-choice left-back, but Flick wants more depth and competition throughout the squad. Cucurella would bring intensity, Premier League experience and a strong understanding of Spanish football. His previous time at La Masia also gives the move an emotional dimension.
Koundé holds the key
Everything still depends on what happens with Koundé over the coming weeks. Barça renewed his contract until 2030 last summer and improved his salary package. Nevertheless, SPORT suggests that the season did not fully satisfy internal expectations.
The French defender continues to attract strong interest across Europe, especially from Premier League clubs. If a substantial proposal arrives, Barça will have to weigh both the sporting and financial consequences. A sale would generate significant resources, but it would also create an important gap in the squad.
That is why Deco does not want to wait until the last minute before preparing alternatives. The meeting with Ali Barat shows that the club is already exploring different scenarios. The continued interest in Cucurella confirms that defensive changes could extend beyond the right-back position.
Flick wants a stronger defence
Flick is looking for a defensive unit capable of competing for La Liga while also handling the biggest European nights. To achieve that, he wants physical, versatile players who can operate in multiple systems. Dumfries and Cucurella represent different routes towards the same objective.
Dumfries would provide power, athleticism and attacking thrust on the right if Koundé leaves the club. Cucurella would add intensity, experience and competition on the left side. Both players would strengthen a defensive line that could undergo significant changes during the summer.
The transfer window has not yet reached its decisive stage, but Deco is already making moves behind the scenes. Barça do not want to sell Koundé without having a clear plan ready. And that is the twist: if the Frenchman leaves, Dumfries and Cucurella are already waiting on the shortlist.
Caution note: This story is based on reports from SPORT, Carlos Monfort and other media sources. At the time of writing, there is no official agreement between FC Barcelona and either Denzel Dumfries or Marc Cucurella, and Jules Koundé remains a Barcelona player.
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