Jules Kounde's future hangs in the balance with mixed reports surrounding a move to Chelsea with Barcelona also interested - is this to be Raphinha part two, or will the Blues finally get one over on Xavi?
The two clubs have been involved heavily over this summer's transfer window with Chelsea keen on at least acquiring one of Raphinha or Ousmane Dembele. However, Barcelona's economic manoeuvres meant they were able to swoop for the Leeds United star and sign Dembele to a new deal, leaving the Blues empty-handed.
Xavi's side also want both Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso having already acquired Andreas Christensen on a free transfer, so the outcome of this Kounde saga could prove decisive in determining what happens with the Spanish pair as they both wait anxiously on their ideal La Liga moves.
READ MORE: Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui decision hints at Jules Kounde's Chelsea transfer being 'done deal'
There have been reports circulating suggesting that Azpilicueta will only be let go if Kounde was to move to England, so Barca have much to win and lose depending on what they are to do regarding Sevilla's No.23. Although they haven't made an official offer as of yet, Barca are working behind the scenes to try and pull off another Raphinha moment on Chelsea. Foot Mercato, as well as revealing that the 23-year-old's preference is to remain in Spain, have outlined that higher-ups in Catalunya have advised the Frenchman to 'reject' incoming proposals from the Blues.
So far, this hasn't seemed to work with it being widely reported that the defender is still open to a Premier League switch, if his first choice option in the form of Barcelona won't offer the required money that Sevilla director Monchi has demanded in this situation.
The same report goes on to clarify that Monchi is becoming "frustrated" at how this is all being drawn out. That feeling may not last too much longer with multiple hints being dropped already hinting at a 'done deal' being in the pipeline for the France international.
First off, Julen Lopetegui's star defender did not train on Wednesday morning ahead of the flight to Portugal on Thursday whilst @InfoSevillismo state that documents are being exchanged between Chelsea and Sevilla with an imminent announcement possible.
football.london understands that whilst no deal is currently agreed and done, the two clubs are in advanced talks for a £50million deal. Personal terms have been agreed for some time meaning not too much is left for Kounde to become Tuchel's third signing of this summer's transfer window.
READ NEXT
Thomas Tuchel sent brutal Jules Kounde transfer message as Chelsea prepare double bid
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest updates and rumours from Stamford Bridge
Full Chelsea Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
Chelsea to make £30m transfer choice as Thomas Tuchel sets deadline for key conversations
Bayern Munich boss warns Chelsea of Jules Kounde transfer repeat with Barcelona
