Jules Kounde: Barcelona able to register France defender with La Liga

Barcelona coach Xavi had earlier said he was "optimistic" Jules Kounde would be registered for the game against Real Valladolid

France defender Jules Kounde is set to make his competitive debut for Barcelona against Real Valladolid on Sunday, after the club was able to register the player.

Coach Xavi said on Saturday he was "optimistic" the 23-year-old, who joined from Sevilla in July for a reported £42m, would be able to play.

The centre-back missed league games against Rayo Vallecano and Real Sociedad because he could not be registered with La Liga until the club complied with financial rules.

However Barcelona have confirmed the player has now been registered and he is part of a 24-man squad for Sunday's match.

Barca registered four other new players the night before their league opener against Rayo Vallecano after freeing up funding with several 'economic levers'.

Another French defender, Samuel Umtiti, was sent on loan to Lecce in Italy this week, which helped the club free up more funds to comply with La Liga rules.

Xavi, whose side have a win and a draw from their opening two matches, told a news conference on Saturday: "It's a negotiation with La Liga - we are pretty sure Jules can play tomorrow."

Barcelona will be looking to build on last Sunday's 4-1 win against Real Sociedad.

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