'Really loves this player': Romano says Chelsea are still trying to sign £68m man, they think he's 'perfect' for them
Chelsea are still in heavy pursuit of Jules Kounde.
This is according to Fabrizio Romano, who explained on his YouTube channel that the Blues have maintained their desire to sign Sevilla’s talented defender.
Previous encounter between Chelsea and Kounde
Kounde has been under the inspection of Stamford Bridge’s hierarchy for what seems an eternity.
The 23-year-old came close to joining the Champions League holders last summer, but an agreed valuation could not be reached between the two parties.
Sevilla wanted his £68m (Goal) release clause to be paid in full, whilst Chelsea proposed a significantly cheaper fee.
A deal failed to be finalised, meaning the Frenchman remained in Spain.
For the player, a move to South West London has always been appealing, therefore this collapsed transfer was of great disappointment.
Romano reveals all
Yet, Kounde’s dreams may come true if the Blues really are persisting with their ambitions.
“From what I’m told, Chelsea are still working for Jules Kounde. They have the name of Jules Kounde on the list. He is still considered one of the biggest options,” said Romano.
“They are still thinking of Jules Kounde as a player with perfect skills to join Chelsea.
“I will keep an eye on the situation of Kounde. The contacts are still on with people close to the player.
“Chelsea really loves this player. In the last two years, Chelsea have sent their scouts many times to watch Kounde.”
What have the scouts spotted?
Those scouts will have seen the rise of a promising centre-back to France international in the space of just a few seasons.
Has played over 100 times for Sevilla after leaving Bordeaux in 2019 and helped the La Liga side to Europa League glory in his debut campaign.
Yet, there is still plenty of room for growth, especially from a petulance point of view.
Kounde was sent off against Barcelona last month for childishly throwing the ball at David Alaba’s face.
Thomas Tuchel does not take kindly to ill-discipline and won’t accept an individual with poor behaviour.
However, his hands might be tied in terms of wanting Kounde or not.
Departing defenders
Chelsea are on the verge of losing at least one of Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen or Cesar Azpilicueta, all key components to Tuchel’s rear-guard.
A replacement will be needed if a member of the trio departs, either in January or at the end of the season.
It appears the Blues board have named Kounde as the ideal alternative.
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