Chelsea could finally come to an agreement with Sevilla over a summer move for in-demand defender Jules Kounde.
According to Transfer Market Web, Chelsea could finally agree on a significant fee with Sevilla for central defender Jules Kounde, and a move could materialise in the summer. The report suggests both clubs could rubber-stamp a deal worth €55 million plus bonuses for the French defender.
Chelsea spent a significant time back in the summer chasing Jules Kounde. At one stage, the Blues seemed destined to land the player, only Sevilla to create issues that eventually prevented the completion of the deal, with the Andalusian club increasing their demands at the eleventh hour.
While the Blues have faced defensive issues this season, that may not necessarily be on the personnel front. Thomas Tuchel has plenty of options at his disposal, including youngsters like Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr, featuring significantly in games.
The actual need to bring in a top-class central defender may come ahead of next season, as the futures of their first-choice players remains in doubt. A possible big-name departure could be Antonio Rudiger, who has significant offers from European clubs, with the German international runs down his Chelsea contract.
There are also question marks over Andreas Christensen’s future, with the Dane still giving out mixed signals over the proposed new contract from Chelsea. If Rudiger and Christensen depart Stamford Bridge, the Blues will have to spend significantly on replacements, with Kounde considered one such option to replace them.
While Sevilla and Chelsea failed to agree on the transfer fee last summer, the latest report insists they have concluded a deal. The clubs have reportedly agreed on a €55 million price plus €5 million in bonuses, and the Blues have already agreed personal terms with the Frenchman over a move.
Last summer, Kounde, too, had reservations over a move to England as he was waiting on Real Madrid to make an offer. With the Spanish giants ending their interest, the French defender was then convinced of a move to London, and that stance may not have changed since.
He would be a good signing for Chelsea as Tuchel builds his backline with players considered for the club’s long-term future. Kounde has significant international experience and capabilities in playing under high pressure, making him an ideal candidate to grace Stamford Bridge.
It remains to be seen if there are further twists or if the transfer completes when the season ends. Chelsea will be desperate to close the deal and integrate Kounde into their ranks for next season.
