Barcelona have made an approach to sign Tottenham Hotspur right-back Pedro Porro, according to reports in Spain. The Catalan club has sounded out the 26-year-old as a potential replacement for Jules Kounde, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal this week.
Porro's rise and World Cup success
Porro has spent four seasons in the Premier League after his initial loan move from Sporting CP in January 2023 was made permanent for £39.7 million six months later. This summer, he was a key part of Spain's squad which won the World Cup, starting in all but one of his nation's games at the tournament.
Speaking on his Jijantes show on Tuesday night, Gerard Romero revealed that Barcelona have made contact with Porro's representatives. 'Contact has been made in recent days with Pedro Porro, with the full-back's entourage,' Romero said. 'He is one of the highest paid players at Tottenham, he renewed very recently, but Barcelona have sounded out his entourage in the event that Jules Kounde leaves.'
Kounde's uncertain future
Kounde has been linked with a move to Arsenal as Mikel Arteta is keen to recruit another defender before the end of the summer transfer window. Romero added: 'Kounde has many offers from the Premier League, so far the player hasn't shown any signs of wanting to leave but it's a case that's half open, so anything can happen.'
In June, Porro signed a new contract with Spurs which keeps him tied to the club until 2031. Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi praised the defender's qualities: 'Pedro is a very important player for us, who has consistently shown his ability to influence matches in both defensive and attacking situations. As well as his technical quality, I also love his mentality. Every day he wants to work, to learn and to improve, and these are the characteristics that help players reach the highest level.'
De Zerbi's praise and contract details
De Zerbi continued: 'He understands football in a very intelligent way, and brings energy, intensity and personality to the team. This new contract is good news for everyone at the club. We believe in Pedro, and I am excited to continue working with him and helping him achieve even more in the coming years.'
The approach from Barcelona comes as they prepare for the possibility of losing Kounde, who has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. The outcome of Kounde's situation could determine whether Barcelona pursue a formal bid for Porro, who remains under contract at Tottenham until 2031.
