Chelsea submit ‘first formal offer’ for Jules Kounde after intertwined transfer competition for Sevilla star

Chelsea have made the first formal offer for Jules Kounde, but the Sevilla centre-back is attracting interest from elsewhere in an intertwined transfer saga, reports claim.

Kounde was a top target for Chelsea last summer, but they couldn’t complete a deal with Sevilla. Now, though, the Spanish side are planning to sell the 23-year-old. As a result, Chelsea continue to be linked with a transfer.

Their need for a new defender has been heightened by the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. They have already added one elite replacement in the shape of Kalidou Koulibaly. Now, they are on the lookout for another.

And according to AS, they have submitted the first formal bid to Sevilla for Kounde. On the table is an offer of €55m (£46.9m at the present exchange rate) plus variables.

Sevilla are yet to respond to the offer, but do not know whether Kounde will return once their pre-season preparations step up. He has been given extra time off due to international exertions and muscular issues.

Although Barcelona are also interested in the France international – whom Gerard Romero claims they may even have an agreement with – AS insist Chelsea are the favourites to sign him. Thomas Tuchel is a major admirer and wants to add Kounde to his squad at Stamford Bridge.

Still, Chelsea may have to raise their offer. Elsewhere, CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs has claimed Sevilla want a straight-cash deal between €60m (£51.1m) and €65m (£55.4m).

What’s more, Barcelona might not be the only threat to Chelsea’s attempts to sign Kounde. According to a report from Le Parisien over the weekend, PSG also have him on their radar.

Ironically, another option for Chelsea at centre-back has been PSG’s Presnel Kimpembe. However, L’Equipe have since revealed Kimpembe is looking likely to stay in Paris.

Therefore, PSG’s need for Kounde – who was born in Paris – may not be as great as Chelsea’s. In turn, the Blues will be hoping their formal approach can guide them towards a positive conclusion, even if it may not be enough just yet.

Kounde increasingly within reach for Chelsea

After a transfer saga that has dragged on for more than a year, it could almost be time for Chelsea to wrap things up with Kounde.

Making a formal bid is a positive step. The fact they are not far off Sevilla’s demands is also promising.

Barcelona attempt to hijack Jules Kounde deal from Chelsea

Barcelona are attempting to steal Jules Kounde from Chelsea as Sevilla CB is interested in Barca

Kounde has proven himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga since joining Sevilla from Bordeaux in 2019. Therefore, Sevilla are well within their right to request more than £50m for his departure.

Chelsea are a financially powerful club and do not have too much further to go before meeting the asking price. Given Kounde’s ability and their need for another centre-back, they should take this opportunity and stump up the remaining cash.

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