Chelsea are about to agree a share with Sevilla for Jules Koundé, but could face competition from Barcelona’s French center-back.
Thomas Tuchel is focused on strengthening his defense and wants more additions after the arrival of Kalidou Koulibaly from Naples last week. Chelsea have been aiming for Koundé since last summer and are hoping to buy him.
Tuchel seeks to incorporate three power plants. Chelsea have been unable to sign Nathan Aké from Manchester City, but have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain over Presnel Kimpembe and are following in the footsteps of RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol. Kimpembe and Gvardiol would fill the position of left midfielder left vacant by Antonio Rüdiger, who has joined Real Madrid.
Koundé, who is understood to have agreed personal terms with Chelsea, is a right-back and would replace Andreas Christensen after the Dane’s move to Barcelona. It is believed that Sevilla could accept 60 million euros for Koundé, who can also play as a right winger or right winger. However, Chelsea could have to contend with interest in Barça’s French international, who beat Tuchel with Leeds’ Raphinha.
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Chelsea lost to Koundé after failing to reach an agreement with Sevilla last summer. If the 23-year-old moves to Stamford Bridge, he could allow Tuchel to let go of César Azpilicueta. Barça want the Chelsea captain.
Chelsea owners want to support Tuchel. They reinforced the attack by buying Raheem Sterling from City in a deal worth up to £ 50 million.