Barcelona have reportedly reached an agreement in principle over the potential transfer of Sevilla defender Jules Kounde, according to Marca.
The France international looks like becoming the latest exciting purchase for Barca, following the likes of Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski in moving to the Nou Camp this summer, while Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen were also snapped up as free agents.
It’s remarkable just how quickly Barcelona have moved into pole position to sign Kounde, with the reliable Nizaar Kinsella tweeting just three days ago that Chelsea still looked the favourites to sign the 23-year-old centre-back as they entered into the final stage of negotiations…
Chelsea have still not agreed on a fee with Sevilla for Jules Kounde. They remain in talks and favourites (as of now) but they can't relax until an offer is accepted. #CFC https://t.co/COTRjWs5G1
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) July 24, 2022
Kounde could have been a vital signing for Chelsea, with Thomas Tuchel in need of signings to replace Antonio Rudiger and Christensen.
Kalidou Koulibaly recently joined CFC from Napoli, but it’s clear one or two more defensive signings wouldn’t go amiss.
Chelsea could have other options instead of Kounde, though, with the Evening Standard mentioning Presnel Kimpembe and Josko Gvardiol.