Chelsea co-owner and interim sporting director Todd Boehly is reportedly ready for talks with Sevilla over Jules Kounde.
Jules Kounde is closing in on a move to Chelsea this summer amid interest from Barcelona. (dpa)
The Daily Mail’s Simon Jones has now reported that Sevilla sporting director Monchi will be at the club’s training ground in Portugal on Sunday.
Here, he is set to speak to Chelsea co-owner and acting sporting director Todd Boehly about the move as the American looks to clear things up as he looks for defensive additions this summer.
The report goes on to claim that Chelsea are wary of Barcelona’s threat to make a last-minute bid following the release of more funds after selling more TV rights this week.
Barcelona manager Xavi has already contacted Kounde to tell him he is a key part of his plans at Camp Nou, asking the defender to wait for his offer before accepting a move to Chelsea.
Despite this, the Catalan club have yet to reach an agreement with Sevilla, which could be difficult, as Chelsea’s offer is already seen as “too strong”.
They have threatened to match Chelsea’s £55m bid over two installments and Kounde’s willingness could lead to where he ends up.
Thomas Tuchel has been keen to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer after losing both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen to free transfers.
Thomas Tuchel has a big Chelsea squad for pre-season. (dpa)
Kalidou Koulibaly arrived in a £34million deal from Napoli, bolstering the backline, but the German boss wants to add more.
It is still unclear where Kounde will end up, the longer the transfer saga drags on, the more frustrating it becomes for Chelsea and their supporters.
PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe has been linked with a move to London during the transfer window.
Former Blue Nathan Ake also interested Tuchel’s side, who refused to match the defender’s valuation.
Chelsea will no doubt be looking to make another defensive addition, whether or not it’s Kounde remains to be seen.