Chelsea reportedly remain in discussions over a move for Jules Kounde despite reports stating that he is no longer a top priority this summer.
It was previously revealed that Sevilla have recognised that Chelsea’s interest in Kounde has ‘cooled’ as they prioritise other targets.
The French international was seen as a ‘club target’ rather than that of Thomas Tuchel, who has now been handed control in the transfer window.
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It was believed that Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt is now Chelsea’s number one priority, overtaking Kounde.
With Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen both having left the Blues, Tuchel’s side are in the market for central defenders.
While it is thought that Kounde has taken a back step, with Nathan Ake of Manchester City emerging as a potential signing this summer.
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However, it has since been reported that the defender remains of interest to Chelsea.
As reported by Matt Law of the Telegraph, discussions are still ongoing over a move for Kounde.
Ake could still be signed alongside Kounde, but this would likely see Reece James moved into a back three to allow Kounde time to adapt to the Premier League.
Law continued to state that Kounde remains ‘high’ on Chelsea’s list of centre backs this summer and a move for the Frenchman cannot be ruled out.
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Tuchel confirmed Chelsea’s interest in Kounde last summer, with his side missing out on the defender.
He said: “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.”
The Blues are also reportedly set to ‘deepen discussions’ with Inter Milan over Milan Skriniar.
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The defender’s name was brought up in initial talks over a deal for Romelu Lukaku, but Inter preferred to sell the Slovakian for a fee rather than include him in a swap deal.
Lukaku is set to be announced as an Inter Milan player once again this week, joining on a season-long loan from Chelsea.
Paris Saint-Germain also hold interest in Skriniar as the Blues look to make at least two central defensive signings this summer.
It remains to be seen as to whether they can reach a breakthrough in negotiations for Kounde, who is attracting interest from Barcelona.
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Sevilla are thought to want a deal done early in the transfer window to allow them time to replace the French international, but it is unclear as to whether a transfer can be struck soon.
One thing is for sure, the Blues will replace Rudiger and Christensen this summer.
WIth the current focus on bringing in Raheem Sterling, Tuchel's men could turn to central defenders once a deal has been struck.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Jules Kounde, Sevilla, Football, Transfers