Chelsea transfer news: Blues close in on Jules Kounde

According to recent reports, Chelsea are in talks with Sevilla to sign Jules Kounde. After a slow start to the summer transfer window, Chelsea are growing in confidence to seal the deal for the central defender from the Spanish outfit.

The renowned Italian journalist, Fabrizio Romano, broke the transfer news on the potential move:

"Jules Koundé has an agreement ready on personal terms with Chelsea. Contract until 2026 won’t be a problem to be signed – as Koundé is open to accept. #CFC Chelsea and Sevilla are in advanced talks to reach an agreement on payment/deal structure, as exclusively revealed"

Multiple Premier League outfits, including Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, want the French center back but Chelsea are leading the race to sign him with Thomas Tuchel wanting to improve his options at the back.

The Blues CB situation at Stamford Bridge

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The Blues have sold two of their center-backs for a combined fee worth £50million. AC Milan signed Fikayo Tomori for £30million while Crystal Palace signed Marc Guehi for a deal worth £20million.

With the departure of Fikayo Tomori and Marc Guehi, Tuchel is left with Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva, Antonio Rudiger and Kurt Zouma.

Thiago Silva is in the final year of his contract and we expect him to retire at the end of the 2021/22 season. It is also understood that Chelsea are willing to part ways with Antonio Rudiger if a suitable bid arrives for the German.

Jules Kounde featured in 34 games for Sevilla in 2020/21. The Frenchman has three G/A to his name in the league apart from his impressive numbers on the defense side of the game.

"Jules Kounde stats in La Liga 2020/21:Blocks per 90: 1.27Interceptions per 90: 1.27Tackles won per 90: 0.69(Via: fbref)"

Negotiations could hit a roadblock. The Blues are not willing to shell out €80 million for the 22-year-old with Sevilla wanting the West London outfit to pay his full release clause.

However, the financial difficulties faced at Sevilla have handed the EPL side an advantage in the negotiation.

After the Champions League triumph against Manchester City, Thomas Tuchel has set his sights on the Premier League title.

He has asked the board to sign a striker and a defensive midfielder to compete for the title this season and beyond.

What is your opinion on Chelsea signing a new CB? Have your say below.