Chelsea have reportedly made Jules Kounde their number one target in the January transfer window. The Blues are said to have told Barcelona and the Frenchman that they want to sign him, according to reports in Spain.
Head coach Xabi Alonso is also set to get in touch with the Frenchman’s camp soon, as he sees Kounde as a key part of his defensive project. Kounde is no longer seen as untouchable by Barca. However, the board will only consider offers if he asks to leave.
This rumour evolves as Maxence Lacroix limped off in the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool at Anfield on October 28. The 26-year-old suffered a hamstring injury, and he could be out for at least two months.
Kounde can play as both a centre-back and right-back, making him a natural fit to solve the problem. The Blues are also missing Reece James, and Lacroix was a regular in the team after his move from Crystal Palace in the summer.
However, Kounde has struggled in Catalonia this season under Hansi Flick. He has fallen down the pecking order behind Eric Garcia and Joao Cancelo and has only started four games for the club this season.
Kounde is reportedly interested in moving to Stamford Bridge, and Barcelona have told his camp they are willing to sell. However, previous reports stated that Flick was reluctant to let him leave in the middle of the season.
Chelsea tried to sign Kounde from Sevilla in 2022 but ultimately lost out to Barcelona. Reports suggest he could cost around £45m, but as he is contracted until 2030, Barcelona have plenty of leverage.
Xabi Alonso Gives Optimistic Lacroix Prognosis
Xabi Alonso was optimistic with regard to Lacroix in his pre-game press conference on Friday. The Chelsea boss told reporters the defender would be out for a few weeks and would not return before the international break in November.
However, reports have since emerged that Lacroix has a grade three hamstring tear, and there are fears he may be out for the rest of 2026.
Chelsea have yet to give a clear prognosis on how long he will be out for, but either way, Alonso will be without Lacroix’s commanding presence at the back. However, the Blues managed to do without him in their 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Saturday.