Chelsea are ‘very close’ to reaching an agreement for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde, with a deal potentially being completed on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old has been heavily linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge for years, with a deal falling through last summer on deadline day.
"It was clear we tried for Kounde and Saul and it was very, very late but it was a very, very smooth transfer window because I had full concentration on training and on my team," Tuchel admitted, speaking after last summer’s transfer window.
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It now appears that Chelsea could finally get their man following departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
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The pair will ply their trade in La Liga for Real Madrid and Barcelona, while Kounde could be on his way out of the Spanish top flight.
It was previously reported that Chelsea were looking to make up to four defensive signings during the summer transfer window,
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The most recent developments saw reports stating that Kounde was excited by Chelsea’s £34 million signing of Kalidou Koulibaly.
It is believed that the defender is keen to learn from Koulibaly, who he respects as a footballer.
Furthermore, it was reported that the Blues had submitted a bid of €50 million plus add ons, with Sevilla holding out for closer to €60 million.
It has now been reported by Radio Sevilla that the Blues are ‘very close’ to closing an agreement with Sevilla for the defender.
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A deal could be done on Tuesday as Barcelona have not yet made a move for the 23-year-old, who had previously agreed personal terms with Chelsea over a potential move last year.
It remains unclear as to whether a deal can be struck, with Sevilla known to be tough negotiators in the past.
Fabrizio Roman also reported that Sevilla have received a 'verbal proposal' from Chelsea of €50M plus add-ons.
However, currently, Sevilla want €65M for Jules Kounde.
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Barcelona were thought to still be in the race, but with Robert Lewandowski and former Chelsea target Raphinha already joining the Spaniards for hefty fees, the Blues may have been handed a boost in their pursuit for Kounde.
Romano continued to report that the Kounde deal could be 'a new Raphinha story' as talks over personal terms and contract have been discussed with Barcelona. He would be keen on joining Xavi, who is pushing for the move.
Chelsea have also been linked with PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe but it appears that he wishes to remain in Paris rather than move to London.
Therefore, a move for Kounde could make the most sense if a reasonable fee can be agreed during the summer transfer window, with Tuchel hoping to see his defensive rebuild closer to completion ahead of the new Premier League season.
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Kounde's arrival could seal the exit of club captain Cesar Azpilicueta, with Barcelona interested in signing the Spaniard.
It remains to be seen as to whether a deal can be completed quickly or as to whether Barcelona will act if Chelsea agree a fee with Sevilla.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Jules Kounde, Sevilla, Football, Transfers