Chelsea 'Scrambling' For Defensive Targets As Jules Kounde Nears Barcelona Move

Chelsea are said to be ‘scrambling’ to make a defensive signing this summer after missing out on Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.

The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer but is now set to join FC Barcelona as Chelsea miss out on another defensive target.

This comes after the Blues could not reach an agreement with Manchester City over Nathan Ake, refusing to meet their £50 million valuation, and Mathijs de Ligt opted to join Bayern Munich from Juventus.

Jules Kounde is set to join Barcelona this summer. (Alamy)

Furthermore, Paris Saint-Germain defender Presnel Kimpembe has reportedly opted to stay at the club rather than ask for a move, with Chelsea interested.

This has led to Josko Gvardiol and Milan Skriniar linked, but RB Leipzig are reluctant to sell, while Inter Milan are demanding a high fee.

Furthermore, Chelsea are said to be considering a bid for Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana, but once again may be priced out of a deal as the 21-year-old has recently signed a contract extension until 2027.

It has now been reported by Nizaar Kinsella of The Evening Standard that Chelsea are ‘scrambling’ for new centre-back targets, with concerns that they will miss out on both Kounde and Kimpembe.

The journalist expands to reveal that while Kimpembe is yet to rule out a move to Chelsea, he remains unconvinced.

Thomas Tuchel’s side could be offered the chance to sign Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, while they have also turned their attention to Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries.

Skriniar remains an option but PSG are also interested in the Slovakian this summer.

Fofana is said to be a long-term target for Chelsea but is not keen on a move this window after missing the majority of last season after breaking his leg.

Cesar Azpilicueta could also depart in the summer amid interest from Barcelona as Chelsea could go into the season light at the back.

Kalidou Koulibaly has arrived from Napoli this transfer window and the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Levi Colwill and Emerson Palmieri have all been trialled in defence during pre-season.

Kalidou Koulibaly played his minutes in a Chelsea shirt against the Gunners. (Chelsea FC)

It remains to be seen as to what Tuchel will do ahead of the Premier League season next month, with time running out for his side to make defensive additions ahead of the opener at Goodison Park against Everton.

One thing is certain, the Blues are in desperate need of additions if they wish to challenge on all fronts next season.

Their Premier League rivals have already strengthened, as was seen when Arsenal came out 4-0 victors against Tuchel's side in pre-season.

Time is running out for the Blues to add to their squad, however, as they now scramble for signings.