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Sevilla director Monchi has provided an update on the future of Chelsea target Jules Kounde this summer, amid interest from Barcelona.
The 23-year-old has been heavily linked with the Blues for over a year, with Thomas Tuchel admitting that he was subject of a bid last season.
He said: “It was clear we tried for Kounde and Saul and it was very, very late but it was a very, very smooth transfer window because I had full concentration on training and on my team.”
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Chelsea were previously unable to reach an agreement in their negotiations for the defender as Sevilla priced them out of a move last summer, despite personal terms being agreed.
Barcelona are reportedly going to challenge Chelsea for the defender this summer, despite having announced the arrival of Andreas Christensen.
Antonio Rudiger also departed Chelsea in the summer to join Real Madrid, with Tuchel’s side looking to replace the pair.
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Matthijs de Ligt has been identified as the main target if reports are to be believed, becoming a priority ahead of Kounde.
It is believed that the Blues are preparing a €70 million bid for the Dutch defender as Tuchel has given the green light to a transfer.
De Ligt is said to be impressed with the way in which Tuchel helps to bring the best out of defenders and is open to a move this summer.
This throws Chelsea’s interest in Kounde into doubt as they could opt for alternative targets.
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Now, Sevilla director Monchi has provided an update on the Chelsea-linked French international.
Speaking via Fabrizio Romano, he admitted that there are no contacts with Barcelona over the 22-year-old.
“There are zero contacts with Barcelona for Jules Kounde. No talks ongoing,” he said.
“I understand Xavi as Araújo and Kounde together would be great but there’s nothing.
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"I know Chelsea have to find two centre-backs, but the interest in Kounde comes from England and other countries. I would have to be a fortune teller to know what is going to happen."
This comes after Sevilla chief José María Cruz admitted last month that Kounde wants to play in a more competitive team than he currently does.
He said: "He is happy with us. In the case of Kounde, it is not a matter of money. It’s a matter of him wanting to play in a more competitive team than Sevilla FC.
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“I am sure he is a player that is attractive for teams like Chelsea, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich and these types of teams.
"He wants to play in a more competitive team.”
It remains to be seen as to whether Chelsea will move for the defender once more or pursue other targets.
However, at least two central defenders look likely to arrive at Stamford Bridge as Tuchel wishes to compete at the top level once again next season.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Jules Kounde, Sevilla, Football, Premier League, Barcelona
Nick Emms