Chelsea have not lost sight of one of their main defensive targets in Jules Kounde, but their shortlist features up to three other names, while Atletico Madrid could capitalise on a stalling Premier League exit – according to Monday’s Euro transfer gossip.
CHELSEA KEEP KOUNDE ON FOUR-MAN WISHLIST
Jules Kounde is one of up to four centre-backs Chelsea are considering for their defensive rebuild in the summer.
That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who verifies that the Sevilla star has been majorly admired by Thomas Tuchel over the past couple of years.
Chelsea tried to sign Kounde last summer, but could not meet Sevilla’s asking price. This year, their need for a new centre-back is even greater as they prepare to lose Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
Although they will not receive any money for those exits, they could invest heavily to fill the gap. Should a takeover of the club go through in time, a move for Kounde could be expected.
Sevilla would only let it happen if Chelsea can meet his release clause worth €80m (nearly £67m). That would make him the Blues’ joint-second record signing of all time, at the same level as Kai Havertz and Kepa Arrizabalaga but behind Romelu Lukaku.
However, it is not a given that Kounde will be the player Chelsea pursue. Romano’s update clarifies that there are three to four options on their defensive shortlist. None of the others are named.
Kounde cementing importance for Sevilla and France
Kounde has enjoyed another strong season after getting over the disappointment of not being able to join Chelsea last year. He has played in 28 of their 34 La Liga games, in which they have conceded fewer goals than any other side in the Spanish top flight.
Also becoming a more regular feature of the France national team, the 23-year-old could dominate defences for the decade to come.
Chelsea need someone to take up that responsibility at Stamford Bridge. Therefore, Kounde could be firmly back on their radar ahead of an…
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