Reports have revealed that Chelsea are preparing to sign Jules Kounde from Barcelona this summer, even though his release clause is a staggering €1bn (£869m). The Blues have started pursuing the versatile French defender, who can play both right-back and centre-back at the highest level.
Chelsea tried to sign Kounde in 2022 while he was still at Sevilla, but the deal fell through, and Barcelona signed him for about €55 million (£46 million). The 26-year-old has become a key player at Camp Nou, playing 54 games in 2024, more than any other member of the current Catalan team.
Meanwhile, the Blues’ defence has been weak all season, and they are looking to get some new players before the summer transfer window opens. Chelsea don’t have enough experienced, proven defenders who can make the backline strong and flexible. Captain Reece James is still having trouble with his fitness, and there are still questions about a few of the centre-back options.
News from the Spanish website Fichajes says Chelsea may be willing to pay between €80 million and €100 million for Kounde to join them. They know that Barcelona’s well-known financial problems might force them to consider big offers for important players. Kounde, on the other hand, is still loyal to his current club and is not actively looking for a way out of Camp Nou.
Marca also says that Kounde “wants to stay” and “has no plans to leave” Barcelona. Meanwhile, the Catalan club are already talking about extending his contract beyond its current 2027 expiration date.
Chelsea are unlikely to get a good deal, and if they really want to bring the World Cup finalist to Stamford Bridge, they will need a lot of time to talk about it. Barcelona aren’t actively trying to sell, and Kounde himself is happy at Camp Nou, so the Blues have a huge job ahead of them to get both the club and the player to agree to a move this summer.
Arsenal Joins The Race As Premier League Giants Fight For Kounde’s Signature
Arsenal are ready to battle Chelsea for Jules Kounde from Barcelona. Andrea Berta’s appointment as Arsenal’s new sporting director could be crucial to the Gunners’ efforts to sign the versatile defender.
Many top Premier League teams are interested in Kounde because of his strong 2024–25 season. The French defender has played in 32 La Liga games this season, scoring two goals and giving three assists. He has also been a key part of Barcelona’s push in several competitions.
BecauseBarca have so many centre-backs, the Frenchman has mostly played as a right-back, which he reportedly doesn’t like. Chelsea’s rumoured offer includes promising Kounde that he can return to his preferred central defensive role. This could be a key factor if the defender is thinking about leaving Spain.