Chelsea look set to fly out of the traps in the summer transfer window once Todd Boehly's consortium complete the takeover. And, keen to make a statement signing to christen a new era at Stamford Bridge, groundwork has been put in place to sign Jules Kounde as soon as sanctions and the UK Government give the green light, according to Goal.
The 23-year-old has featured 31 times for Sevilla in La LIga this season, playing a significant role in the Spanish giants retaining the best defensive record in the league. His impressive displays have steered his side towards Champions League qualification, though not confirmed yet.
The Blues were linked with Kounde ahead of the season and were understood to have agreed a deal worth around £43 million, according to The Athletic. However, the subsequent sale of Kurt Zouma to West Ham reportedly saw Sevilla's sporting director, Monchi, increase the asking price to £69 million to which Chelsea then halted their pursuit.
