Chelsea are still hopeful of reaching an agreement with Sevilla on defender Jules Kounde, while talks continue between the two clubs.
Kounde have a release clause in their contract, and it is clear that it has increased from £ 68 million to £ 77 million recently – although it is not a big problem for Chelsea.
Kounde is very highly rated / Quality Sports Images / Getty Images
The Blues have never had any desire or intention to comply with the Frenchman’s release clause due to financial fair play problems that arise from having to pay the fee in full.
90min revealed earlier this month that Chelsea had contacted Sevilla to discuss a deal that would instead make them pay in installments for the 22-year-old. Los Nervionenses are open to that structure but told Chelsea they would need to come up with a package worth £ 90 million, even though negotiations are underway on that figure.
Although Chelsea do not want to cough up that amount, sources close to the club have told 90min that they are hopeful that a deal can be reached when the two parties are in contact. The West London club and Kounde’s representatives already have the structure of an agreement on his terms, so finalizing his contract will not be an issue.
It was thought that the emergence of Trevoh Chalobah could make money in Chelsea’s hunt for the coveted France international, but they have maintained their interest in Kounde and both players would be in Thomas Tuchel’s plans until at least January.
Sevilla and Chelsea had hoped that Kurt Zouma could be part of the exchange, but the player rejected the chance to move to Andalusia, although a move to West Ham now seems likely. Another Blues player has been discussed in the form of Malang Sarr, but he has a number of options abroad and in the Premier League.
Kurt Zouma is generally expected to leave Chelsea / James Williamson – AMA / Getty Images
With both men likely to leave Stamford Bridge, space would be created for the arrival of another midfielder, with Chalobah left as well.
Kounde will probably be Chelsea’s only incoming transfer before the window closes on August 31, should they complete the move, although they are one of the teams watching Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga, who will leave the Ligue 1 team.
