April 26, (THEWILL) – Jules Kounde’s transfer from Sevilla to Chelsea remains a mutual goal for both parties this summer. This is despite the club’s lengthy takeover rumbling on.
Chelsea thought they had gotten a good deal on the centre-back last summer, only to be caught off guard by a last-minute escalation in the La Liga club’s demands. Despite his desire to go, the Frenchman was forced to remain in Spain as the Blues refused to return to the negotiating table.
Even with the penalties imposed by the UK government on the club’s billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, the 23-year-old was still Chelsea’s priority among a host of other centre-back targets such as Villarreal’s Pau Torres.
Chelsea is unable to negotiate new contracts or sign new players as a result of the measures, which are in the last phases of a drawn-out process as the three shortlisted bidders make their final pitches in London this week.
Kounde’s ambition to join the club is strong, and he has been assured that if the club is taken over, he will be one of the first signings through the door.
The Blues have long had interest in the French international, who was considered as a potential successor for Kurt Zouma when the latter left for West Ham last summer.
However, with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen set to leave for Real Madrid and Barcelona, respectively, on free transfers this summer, the necessity to bolster the centre defence has become critical.
Rudiger’s desire to leave Stamford Bridge has been confirmed by head coach Thomas Tuchel, and Los Blancos are optimistic of concluding a contract with the soon-to-be free agent.
Meanwhile, barring any new developments, Christensen has all but cemented a move to Camp Nou when his current deal expires. Cesar Azpilicueta’s future is still out in the air, despite the fact that his contract has been extended for another year.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
