Chelsea eye Jules Kounde as alternative to Real Madrid target Dean Huijsen

‎Chelsea FC are reportedly considering a move for Barcelona’s Jules Kounde, according to recent reports from Sport. The French defender, who was a target for the Premier League club in 2022 while still at Sevilla, has once again come into Chelsea’s sights. At that time, Chelsea were seen as the frontrunner to secure Kounde’s signature, but negotiations fell through, and Barcelona eventually swooped in to sign the player for approximately €55 million (£46 million). Now, Chelsea are said to be ready to make another substantial push to bring Kounde to Stamford Bridge, viewing him as a versatile asset capable of playing both center-back and right-back positions.

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‎'Jules Kounde.'

‎Getty Images Sport 

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‎Sources indicate that Chelsea could make an official offer for Kounde in the near future. However, the 25-year-old remains committed to his current club and is not actively seeking an exit. His future at Barcelona, though, could be influenced by ongoing contract talks. Kounde’s current deal runs until 2027, and while Chelsea could offer a higher salary and the opportunity to play in his preferred center-back role, much of the decision will depend on whether Barcelona is willing to meet his contract demands.

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‎Barcelona are reportedly prioritizing Kounde’s contract renewal, as securing his long-term future is seen as one of the club’s most urgent matters. Despite this, Kounde has primarily been used as a right-back at Barcelona, a position he is not particularly fond of. With the potential addition of Jonathan Tah to Barcelona’s defense in the summer, Kounde’s chances of returning to a central defensive role appear slim. Furthermore, Barcelona is also in the market for another right-back, increasing competition for Kounde’s current position.

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‎Should Chelsea fail in their pursuit of Kounde, they are expected to shift their focus back to Dean Huijsen of Bournemouth. However, attracting the young Dutch defender may prove difficult, as Real Madrid is also reportedly interested in securing his services. To make room for new arrivals, Chelsea is likely to offload several players, including Axel Disasi and Trevoh Chalobah, while the futures of Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile remain uncertain. SA