Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, as per Spanish outlet Sport.
Since becoming the Blues’ new manager, Xabi Alonso has used a back three system this season. The Spanish boss currently has Wesley Fofana, Josh Acheampong, Malo Gusto and Reece James as specialist options to deploy in the right centre-back and RWB positions.
However, Fofana has had numerous fitness problems since joining from Leicester City. On the other hand, Alonso has used Gusto and James in the engine room.
Therefore, it appears Chelsea are considering reinforcing the right side of the defence. Sport report that the West London club have expressed their interest in Kounde and hold a long-standing interest in the Frenchman.
They initially attempted to buy him back in 2022, but Barcelona ultimately managed to win the race. But with Kounde struggling to find regular game time under Hansi Flick this season, Chelsea are planning to finally sign him.
With the defender’s existing deal set to run until 2030, Barcelona are in a strong position to demand a big fee if they are forced to cash-in and want around £42m.
The report state that Chelsea will have to overcome several obstacles to seal the deal as Bayern Munich are also in this race. On the other hand, Kounde is happy to stay at Camp Nou, although he has been featuring as a rotational option this season.
Kounde to Chelsea
Kounde used to play as a centre-back at Sevilla but has mainly featured as a right-back since joining Barcelona. He even plays in the RB role for the French national team.
Kounde is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and reads the game well. Moreover, he is strong in defensive contributions.
Although he has featured as a rotational option for Barcelona this season, he is a talented player and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the West London club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services in January or next summer.
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