Chelsea are on course to sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde despite him suffering an injury setback, it has been reported.
The 23-year-old has reportedly been playing through pain for the majority of the season, with a known ongoing groin issue.
France boss Didier Deschamps confirmed that the defender will require surgery on the issue.
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He said: “I know very well his athletic condition today. Tomorrow, he will have (surgical) intervention because he has a problem that dates from several months ago.”
This came as a blow to Chelsea, who were heavily linked with a move for the French international.
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The most recent reports revealed that the Blues had made a formal offer for Kounde, believed to be worth €50 million, €15 million below Sevilla’s valuation for the defender.
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However, news of surgery saw Chelsea fans sent into a state of panic on social media.
Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen have departed the club since last season, with Kounde believed to be a suitable replacement for the outgoing pair before the news of the injury was confirmed.
There is no reason to panic for Thomas Tuchel and Chelsea, however, as Goal reports that a deal will still go ahead.
Chelsea will await confirmation and feedback that the minor surgery is a success before continuing their pursuit of Kounde, who is said to have already agreed personal terms with the Blues.
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The 23-year-old would be expected to join up with his new Chelsea teammates on July 9 if signed, giving him an additional week off to the non-international Blues.
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The report continues to state that Kounde is expected to be fit in three to four weeks, with Chelsea not having any long term doubts over the signing despite the surgery.
Sevilla CEO Jose Maria Cruz previously hinted at Chelsea signing the defender this summer.
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“Again, the player, I am sure, respects Sevilla FC. He is happy with us. In the case of Kounde, it is not a matter of money. It’s a matter of him wanting to play in a more competitive team than Sevilla FC,” he said.
“I am sure he is a player that is attractive for teams like Chelsea, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich and these types of teams. He wants to play in a more competitive team.”
It’s unclear as to whether the Blues will wait until he has fully recovered from injury to pursue the transfer or whether an agreement will be reached before the three to four week period that he is sidelined.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Jules Kounde, Sevilla, France