Chelsea now ‘very close’ to secure third summer signing despite club rejecting first offer
Chelsea and Sevilla defender Jules Kounde are “extremely close” to finalizing a deal, and it might close on Tuesday.
For years, the 23-year-old has been strongly connected with a move to Stamford Bridge, with a deal falling through on deadline day last summer.
Tuchel admitted, speaking after last summer’s transfer window: “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.”
However, Following the exits of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, it now seems as though Chelsea may have finally found their man.
While Kounde may be leaving the Spanish top division, the pair will compete in La Liga for Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Chelsea was reportedly seeking to bring in up to four defensive players during the summer transfer window.
Furthermore, it was reported that the Blues had submitted a bid of €50 million plus add ons, with Sevilla holding out for closer to €60 million.
Now, it has been reported by Radio Sevilla that the Blues are ‘very close’ to closing an agreement with Sevilla for the defender.
A deal could be done on Tuesday as Barcelona have not yet made a move for the 23-year-old, who had previously agreed personal terms with Chelsea over a potential move last year.
It remains unclear as to whether a deal can be struck, with Sevilla known to be tough negotiators in the past.
Fabrizio Roman also reported that Sevilla have received a ‘verbal proposal’ from Chelsea of €50M plus add-ons.
However, currently, Sevilla want €65M for Jules Kounde.
Therefore, a move for Kounde could make the most sense if a reasonable fee can be agreed during the summer transfer window, with Tuchel hoping to see his defensive rebuild closer to completion ahead of the new Premier League season.
Kounde’s arrival could seal the exit of club captain Cesar Azpilicueta, with Barcelona interested in signing the Spaniard.