Barcelona are reportedly keen on pulling off another coup by securing the service of Chelsea transfer target Jules Kounde. The Catalans are said to be confident that they can get a move over the line for Sevilla defender despite reports suggesting that the Blues are leading the race for the player's signature.
Barca have already dealt Chelsea a blow in this transfer window after pulling off a coup to recruit Raphinha. The Blues had agreement in place for the former Leeds United man but were hard done by the La Liga club who were the preferred choice for the winger. In hindsight, Thomas Tuchel's side has turned it attention to other transfer targets in the attacking area and are also looking to sign a centre-back by bringing long-term transfer target Jules Kounde to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea will have more Presnel Kimpembe and Jules Kounde talks next week. Personal terms not a guarantee with Kimpembe, who is settled in Paris. Galtier has told Kimpembe it's his decision even if a fee is agreed. #CFC currently view PSG's £50m price tag as too high.
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 17, 2022
Multiple reports from the UK suggest that the deal is a complicated one. However, Chelsea have scheduled meetings with Sevilla and the representatives of the French defender to sort things out in the coming days. The player's signing is said to be a priority for the London club although they could turn their attention to the signings of Presnel Kimpembe and Nathan Ake should it fail to materialize.
Meanwhile, according to SPORT, Barcelona apparently believe that they can pull off yet another coup and hijack Chelsea's move for Jules Koundé. Speculations have indicated that Xavi has already spoken to the player and his side will be well positioned in the race if they can offer between $40M and $45M while adding either Nico or Abde Ezzalzouli to the package.
