Report: Chelsea now only £8m away from signing 23-year-old, they’re expected to make a second bid for him soon

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Chelsea are reportedly set to make a second bid for Jules Kounde after Sevilla rejected a first approach for him.

According to Goal, Chelsea’s offer of €55million (£47million) for the Sevilla defender was turned down by the Spanish club.

It is understood the Blues will soon return with an improved bid, though.

The report explains Sevilla are holding out for €65million (£55million) to allow Kounde’s sale, meaning the two clubs are currently £8million away in their valuations.

Second Chelsea bid for Kounde

This is a transfer rumour that’s reemerged this summer, and it doesn’t sound a million miles away.

Kounde, who has 11 caps for France, is a talented defender that would be a shrewd addition at Stamford Bridge.

The 23-year-old is a ball-playing centre-back that’s built up an impressive CV in La Liga, plus he can slot in at right-back if needed.

It’s going to be intriguing to see if Chelsea are willing to increase their bid to match the asking price of Sevilla, who are standing firm on their player.

Incidentally, it was reported earlier this month the Blues switched their focus back on to Kounde when they failed in their attempts to sign Manchester City’s Nathan Ake.

Blues CBs

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel potentially has an array of talent to select from in defence next season.

Kalidou Koulibaly’s completed his move this summer to West London to improve the centre-back options, while Thiago Silva seems like a nailed-on pick.

Elsewhere, youngsters Ethan Ampadu and Levi Colwill are still currently part of the travelling squad of the United States for pre-season.

You’d predict Kounde would become a key part of a back three if signed for £50million-plus in this window.

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