Chelsea are reportedly set to lodge a new bid for Jules Kounde, having re-initiated talks with Sevilla over a move for the 22-year-old Frenchman
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are stepping up their efforts to sign Jules Kounde before the summer transfer window slams shut. The Blues are in direct contact with Sevilla over a move, and a fresh offer is set to tabled soon for the 22-year-old French international.
Jules Kounde joined Sevilla from Bordeaux in the summer of 2019 and has since gone on to establish himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga. Over the last two years, the 22-year-old has progressed leaps and bounds, turning out 90 times for the Andalusian club while chipping in with six goals and two assists.
His growth has also helped Kounde break into the French national side and he was recently a part of the squad that took part in the UEFA Euro 2020. At the same time, some of the biggest clubs in the world have also started showing an interest in him, with Chelsea currently the clear front-runners in his pursuit.
The interest from Chelsea makes a lot of sense considering Thiago Silva is well into the twilight of his storied career while Cesar Azpilicueta is on the wrong side of 30 as well. In addition, Kurt Zouma is set to be offloaded by Chelsea this summer, thereby creating a vacant spot in their defensive unit.
Chelsea are in direct contact with Sevilla for Jules Koundé deal. Talks ongoing – new bid coming soon from Chelsea, as they know Sevilla won’t sell Koundé on final days of the window. Timing will be key. ? #CFC
Chelsea need to find a solution for Zouma [West Ham still keen]. pic.twitter.com/gLks0rvR1y
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2021
This spot can be filled by Kounde, who could not only come in as a long-term solution at the back for the Blues but also a successor for years to come for Silva. And the player himself appears to be keen on joining Chelsea, with recent reports claiming he was hopeful of completing the switch to Stamford Bridge.
In recent weeks, though, the rumours had gone completely cold, although it has since been claimed that Chelsea are readying their final offer for Kounde. It now looks like the west Londoners have prepared that offer following direct talks with Sevilla over a possible sale.
As per Fabrizio Romano, Sevilla will not sell Kounde late in the transfer window, which is why Chelsea are set to present their proposal soon. What now remains to be seen is if the offer is good enough for the Blues to secure the services of the 22-year-old French international.
