Diario AS journalist Manu Sainz has issued an update on the future of Sevilla defender Jules Kounde and it might not make for good reading for Barcelona fans.
The 23-year-old Kounde has been a top defensive target for Barça manager Jules Kounde. Reports in Spain have even claimed that the Frenchman and the Catalans already have an agreement over personal terms, and a fee agreement with Sevilla is the only roadblock.
The fact that Los Nervionenses have already taken down Kounde’s shirt from their official store was a major indicator that the defender was on his way out. And, it was believed that he would be joining Barcelona.
The Blaugrana had been contemplating a player-plus-cash deal with Sevilla in order to lower his €60 million valuation.
However, as per the update from Manu Sainz, Kounde is now headed for Premier League club Chelsea. The report claims that things have accelerated in recent hours and except for a ‘radical change’ the French international will be signing for the Blues.
If true, this will come as a major blow for Barça and their transfer ambitions. Chelsea have had their eyes on Kounde since last year. However, they had turned their attention towards other targets recently, with the club signing Kalidou Koulibaly and pushing for Presnel Kimpembe.
However, after missing out on another target in Nathan Ake, the London club revived their interest in Kounde. And it is now being claimed that the 23-year-old could be close to joining Chelsea.
Manu Sainz adds that Barcelona manager Xavi had spoken to Kounde personally and convinced him to choose Camp Nou. However, it seems like there has been a major U-turn in the transfer race, with Chelsea positive about completing the transfer in the next week.