Chelsea has been in pursuit of Sevilla centre back Jules Kounde for a long time but nothing ever progressed.
As of now, according to a report from TuttoMercatoWeb, The Blues have initiated the attempt for Kounde. Marina Granovskaia is leading the attempt offering €55 million and €5 million in bonuses. The report states that the agreement is “very close” and the defender could leave Sevilla this summer.
Last year, Jules Kounde rejected an offer to join Tottenham Hotspurs because he wanted to sign for Chelsea.
How is Jules Kounde the perfect defensive signing for Chelsea?
The Blues won the UCL last year and their defensive prowess was the best part of that winning side.
After the start of the season, Kurt Zouma, a key player throughout the UCL winning side left for West Ham. Antonio Rudiger has not yet signed any contract extension with the club and many clubs are interested in him. Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen are both linked with FC Barcelona with Bayern Munich also feigning interest in the latter as well. Thiago Silva is also 37 years old and may retire in the coming years.
Chelsea can be left with fewer options and hence Kounde can be the perfect signing.
Jules is 23 years old which makes him a viable option for Chelsea in the long run. The French centre-back is a pacey and agile defender. He makes lengthy runs down the wing can also play as a right-back and has great distribution.
Kounde is versatile and is often the perfect full-back as well because of his technical abilities. He can also play in a back three as well which is a unique trait in Thomas Tuchel’s set-up.
The French international ranks highest in many categories like, passes in the final third, aerial duels won, interceptions and ball recoveries as well. He has amassed over 160 senior appearances, including appearances in the Champions League and at The Euros 2020.
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