Spanish media reports have revealed that FC Barcelona has started discussions with French international Jules Koundé to extend his contract with the team, as part of the club's plans to retain its core players in the upcoming period.

According to the newspaper 'Sport', Deco, the sporting director of the Catalan club, held an informal meeting with Jonathan Kebe, Koundé's agent, on the first day of preparations for the new season, to discuss the possibility of extending the player's contract and improving his terms.

The newspaper clarified that Barcelona and the player's agent have been in contact for several months regarding the contract extension, especially since the club considers Koundé to be an essential part of its long-term project and does not intend to part with him.

It is worth noting that Koundé, who is 26 years old, played 53 matches with Barcelona last season across all competitions, scoring 4 goals and providing 8 assists, and is contracted with the club until the summer of 2028.