Thomas Tuchel commented on the transfer saga currently circulating around the head of Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma.
Speaking in his press conference after the Blues defeated Arsenal yesterday afternoon, Tuchel was questioned on matters outside of the result.
Zouma has suddenly found himself at the epicenter of an interesting scenario that concerns two teams from two countries.
Chelsea are now in serious conversation with Sevilla over the potential signing of Jules Kounde.
To avoid paying his full release clause, the Stamford Bridge chiefs have offered Zouma as part of a swap deal.
However, the centre-back is reportedly not overly keen on a move to Spain and would rather remain in London.
A request that West Ham United are interested in taking advantage of.
Sky Sports said the two Premier League clubs had been in talks regarding the possible sale of the France international.
The Hammers are open to offering £20m (Sky Sports) for Zouma, a value that falls below Chelsea’s estimation.
Curious case of Kurt
Predictably, queries about this ongoing narrative were thrown Tuchel’s way on Sunday following his side’s 2-1 win over Arsenal.
“Kurt comes from a very different situation,” said the Blues boss.
“He has been with the team for half a year and I know what he can give to the team.
“He was part of a very successful half-season.
“He had some tough decisions against him so the situation isn’t the same as Ruben (Loftus-Cheek).”
Zouma was dropped down the pecking order when Tuchel took charge in January.
He had been a regular feature under Frank Lampard but lost his place to the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta.
Despite his muted role towards the tail end of last season, statistically, the 26-year-old was one of Chelsea’s best-performing defenders.
But this means very little if the Blues are intent on buying a new centre-half, leaving Zouma surplus to requirements once again.
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