Chelsea have made enquiries over the possible transfer of Barcelona defender Jules Koundé to Stamford Bridge, according to Matteo Moretto via MARCA.
Koundé had previously been a target of Chelsea in the summer of 2022 before Barcelona reportedly trumped the Blues to his signature.
Since he arrived at the Camp Nou, he has enjoyed meteoric success in both club accolades and individual performances, leading Hansi Flick to describe him as ‘incredible’.
The 27-year-old has featured 193 times for the Catalan giants, winning several trophies, including three LaLiga titles, two Spanish Cups and three Spanish Super Cups.
Despite being a natural centre-back, Koundé has been one of the best right backs in LaLiga in recent seasons, especially following the appointment of Hansi Flick.
Having featured in the opening four games for Barcelona, Koundé has been on the bench in the last three LaLiga games, leading to swirling rumours over a potential departure.
Now, citing Matteo Moretto, MARCA reports that Koundé’s future at Camp Nou is uncertain, which has led to interest in his signature ahead of the 2027 transfer window.
One of the clubs looking to sign him is Chelsea, according to the report, which claims that the Blues are keeping tabs on his situation with Barcelona and have made enquiries ahead of a potential move.
Kounde to Chelsea
Providing more clarity on Chelsea’s interest, Moretto revealed the London club hold a longstanding interest in Koundé and still have him on their radar.
He said, ‘There are Premier League clubs keeping an eye on him. Chelsea enquired about him and almost signed him before he went to Barça’.
It appears Xabi Alonso’s side are already stepping up efforts over Koundé’s transfer, with the journalist adding that, ‘Looking ahead to January, they are assessing the situation and looking at the numbers of this potential deal.’
He added that Koundé’s sale could relate to Barcelona’s need to raise funds for a striker and could demand up to £42m to sanction the 27-year-old’s departure amid interest from Chelsea, saying, ‘Koundé’s future at Barça is not guaranteed, and Chelsea have enquired about him.’
Having conceded 12 goals this season, the most of any Premier League team, it is clear that Chelsea’s backline needs fixing. Xabi Alonso’s side are yet to keep a clean sheet this season and have also conceded at least two goals in all five league games.
Should Barcelona make Koundé available for £42m, signing him should be a no-brainer, as he offers experience, leadership, combativeness and versatility to play different positions in the backline.
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