Sevilla have denied reports that they have agreed a deal in principle with Barcelona over a transfer for Chelsea target Jules Kounde this summer.
The 23-year-old was reportedly set to join Chelsea, who had made a £55 million bid to secure his services this summer. Friday’s reports stated that Barcelona were beaten to the signing after refusing to match Chelsea’s bid for Kounde.
However, Saturday morning saw the situation turn on its head as reports from Spain stated that Sevilla and Barcelona had come to an agreement in principle regarding the transfer of the defender.
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There has been another late twist in the tale, with Sevilla now denying rumours that Barcelona have reached an agreement with them over a transfer.
As reported by Gabriel Sans of Mundo Deportivo, Sevilla are waiting for Chelsea to send them all the documentation for Kounde.
They have had ‘zero contract’ with Barcelona, who have yet to make a formal offer. Sevilla are in a hurry to close an agreement to bolster their defence.
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Sevilla sources continued to explain that 'nothing has changed' and Barcelona have 'not made any movement' as they deny all reports regarding an agreement being reached.
Fabrizio Romano continued to add to this later in the day, revealing that Barcelona are preparing an official bid to try and hijack the deal.
Since Thursday, he says, Chelsea have been waiting for the green light from Sevilla to sign Kounde.
The defender has held talks with both Barcelona and Chelsea, but the La Liga side will not match the offer on the table from the Blues.
Romano continues to confirm that evilla insist there is no agreement with Barcelona and negotiations for Kounde are only with Chelsea.
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The situation will be ever so familiar for the Blues fans, with similar events taking place after they had agreed a fee with Leeds United to sign Raphinha.
The player held out for a move to Barcelona, with the Spanish side matching Chelsea’s bid and seeing the Brazilian join them.
Thomas Tuchel will be keen to avoid a repeat of the transfer saga, which saw Chelsea waste valuable time.
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With Kalidou Koulibaly having already arrived this summer, the Blues have made progress in replacing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christsensen but would like further defenders through the door, with Kounde the latest name targeted.
It remains to be seen as to whether the 23-year-old will join Chelsea or Barcelona, as the Blues hope to finally get their man this summer as Sevilla deny Barcelona’s advances for now.
The coming days are set to be crucial for all involved.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Jules Kounde, Sevilla, Barcelona, Transfers, Football
Nick Emms