Chelsea

Chelsea

Premier League • England

Chelsea handed timely transfer boost with ideal Rudiger replacement decided on future

Sevilla, Jules Kounde

Chelsea targeting Sevilla defender Jules Kounde

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a fresh bid for Sevilla star Jules Kounde, with the defender ‘already decided’ he is ready to leave this summer.

News broke this week that Blues defender Antonio Rudiger had reportedly decided to leave Chelsea at the end of the season. In the aftermath of Chelsea’s late victory over West Ham on Sunday, Thomas Tuchel confirmed his star centre-half will leave this summer.

Combined with the likely move of Andreas Christensen to Barcelona, Chelsea could be left short of options next campaign. Now, Tuchel has turned his attention to Kounde in a bid to solve the potential defensive crisis.

According to The Telegraph, Chelsea are planning another move for the France international this summer.

The Blues came close to signing Kounde last summer, however, the deal failed to materialise.

Now, Kounde could once again be set for a switch to the Premier League, with Chelsea desperate to land a defender.

Kounde has made 36 appearances across all competitions this season, with two goal contributions in La Liga.

Kounde has also helped Sevilla concede the fewest goals in the league – just 27 goals in 33 games.

Given this impressive form, it is believed Sevilla would require a fee of £50m-£60m for his services.

The 23-year-old is also contracted to the Spanish side until 2024.

However, a recent report may boost Chelsea’s chances of landing the star for even cheaper.

Jules Kounde makes decision on future

According to Marca, Kounde ‘has already decided’ he wants to leave Sevilla in the summer.

This is encouraging for Chelsea fans, as Kounde has been a huge bonus for Sevilla throughout the season.

The report outlines that the powerful centre back was left ‘tremendously angry’ at his failure to secure a move away last summer.

After three years with the club, it now seems he is desperate for a new challenge away from La Liga.

It is also reported the need for sales at Sevilla is ‘gigantic’, meaning a deal may be completed cheaper than first thought.

However, Tuchel may face competition for his signature. The report also states that Manchester United are keeping tabs on the transfer status of Kounde.

READ MORE: Pulisic spares Jorginho blushes as Chelsea snatch last-gasp winner after West Ham see red