Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly entered the race to sign 23-year-old French international Jules Kounde from Sevilla this summer.
According to Daily Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur are a part of the queue to sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde this summer. The French international could depart from the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium this summer.
So far, Spurs have done some excellent business in the transfer market, with five great acquisitions. Richarlison, Clement Lenglet, Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster, and Yves Bissouma have all significantly improved the quality of the Tottenham squad.
However, it appears that Antonio Conte and Fabio Paratici are not slowing down anytime soon. Tottenham are closing in on signing Djed Spence, and now, as per Daily Mirror, they are weighing up a summer swoop for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde after failing to make any significant progress in their pursuits of Alessandro Bastoni and Pau Torres over the past few weeks.
The 23-year-old joined Sevilla from Bordeaux in 2019 and has established himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga over the years. The French international is a defensive colossus for the Spanish club, making over 100 appearances and registering nine goals and three assists in the process.
Last season, the 23-year-old defender made 32 La Liga appearances for Los Nervionenses, making three goal contributions and also featuring five times in the UEFA Champions League. His stellar form has also helped him make it to Didier Deschamps’s French national team setup, where he is now a regular, with 11 caps to his name.
Needless to say, Kounde has earned a lot of attraction in recent transfer windows thanks to his versatility, quick turn of pace and elegant passing. And he is often considered one of Europe’s most talented young defenders. Chelsea, in particular, have been heavily linked with the player. However, interest from the Blues has cooled down this summer, with alternative options like Kalidou Koulibaly, and Presnel Kimpembe, and Nathan Ake high on their radar at present.
Barcelona have also expressed interest, but due to budgetary constraints, pursuing him is complicated. Tottenham are now set to gazump their London rivals for Kounde. The 23-year-old defender has featured in multiple positions across the backline with Sevilla and boasts leadership qualities, which makes him an ideal fit for Conte’s plans.
Despite his relatively short 5ft 9in frame, the French international is a very capable defender who is equally proficient on the ground and in the air. Technically adept with an impressive passing range, his ability to carry the ball out of defence and dribble past the opponent’s press distinguishes him as a dynamic talent who understands the modern game.
Despite Chelsea backing off, Tottenham are likely to face stiff competition in the battle for Kounde, with PSG and Newcastle United also looking to splash the cash on him. However, the fact that Tottenham can now offer UEFA Champions League football, as well as the chance to work under Conte, could play a significant role in helping them land the 23-year-old French international.
Doesn’t fit our requirements. Good player but too expensive to sign a name that may turn out to be a misfit.
Sign the Korean, much cheaper, therefore less of a financial risk. He will also have the right mindset as we’ve seen with Son.