Barcelona are reportedly preparing an opening bid to sign Jules Kounde. However, it will fall short of Chelsea's offer for the Sevi...
Barcelona are reportedly preparing an opening bid to sign Jules Kounde. However, it will fall short of Chelsea's offer for the Sevilla defender, according to Fabrizio Romano . The Catalan outfit could potentially pip the Blues to sign Kounde this summer.
Chelsea have pursued him since Frank Lampard's days at the helm, but it seems like the defender could now stay in La Liga. However, things could still sway in the Blues' favor if their opening offer for the defender falls short of the £55 million mark. Chelsea's bid is still on Sevilla's table and it is believed that they are the only team in conversation to sign Kounde.
The Frenchman was a rock in Sevilla's defense last season in his 44 appearances across all competitions. He was a reason behind the La Liga side finishing with the best defensive record in the league, conceding only 30 goals.
If Los Nervionense sanction a move for the 23- year-old only on the basis of transfer fees, then the Blues have the upper hand. After all, it seems unlikely that Barcelona will be able to outbid them.
Their financial troubles are no secret and on top of that, Barcelona have made four signings this summer. Robert Lewandowski, Franck Kessie, Andreas Christensen, and Raphinha will all play for Xavi Hernandez's side from next season.
The Blues, meanwhile, are desperate for defensive reinforcements. Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen have left on free transfers while Cesar Azpilicueta could leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
The 32-year old has been heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou this summer, with the Blues setting a £7 million tag on his transfer. Thiago Silva, as good as he may be, is 37 years old and in the final years of his playing career.
Kalidou Koulibaly's arrival from Napoli for £33 million will not be enough for Tuchel to completely rebuild his defense.
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