Chelsea could look to secure the signing of top defensive target Jules Kounde well before the summer transfer window opens, with the player keen to join them.
According to AS, Chelsea have every chance to secure the signing of top defensive target Jules Kounde well before the end of the season. The Blues have been chasing the 23-year-old French defender since last summer and could get the wish of having the Sevilla star playing at Stamford Bridge.
In January, Sevilla can pat themselves on the back and call it a successful transfer window. The La Liga giants managed to bring in two attackers and warded off tremendous interest from clubs in their defensive stars. They firmly remain in the hunt for the La Liga title this season and will be pleased with their business activities.
Anthony Martial arrived this month on loan from Manchester United, while Jesus Corona joined from FC Porto as Sevilla boosted their attacking options. Those incoming players will surely help them mount a title challenge as they remain just four points off leaders Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, they staved off interest from Newcastle United in key defender Diego Carlos, who was keen to join the Premier League club at one point during the current window. With the retention of the central defender, Sevilla will be pleased to have their important players onboard for the next phase of the season, although there is another problem brewing.
In a similar fashion to Carlos’s saga, the club warded off interest from Chelsea in Jules Kounde last summer. The Blues looked destined to sign the 23-year-old French defender to shore up their backline. However, Sevilla’s demand for a higher fee than what was previously agreed put the deal off the table.
Thomas Tuchel is not willing to give up on Kounde’s pursuit just yet, and he has urged his club to make a new offer in the coming summer. As things stand, the 23-year-old French defender could attract rivals’ interest owing to his brilliant performances this term.
Hence, Chelsea want to seal the move well before the summer transfer window opens. The Blues are willing to make a similar offer as in the summer, with a bid of €50 million deemed enough by those at Stamford Bridge. Sevilla might point towards his release clause once Chelsea make their move, although the Blues believe the player’s preference might play a big role this time around.
The report suggests Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich could be willing to go as high as €55 million and hope for the Spanish side to agree on a deal. If the talks are to occur and progress accordingly, a move could be finalised well before the current season ends, and Kounde could be a Chelsea player next term.
