Chelsea have made Barcelona defender Jules Kounde one of their priority targets for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports in Spain.
The Blues have been credited as long-term admirers of the 26-year-old, and could make their move this summer in order to bolster Enzo Maresca's defence.
Spanish outlet Sport report that Chelsea want to sign a top level defender who can play either in the centre of defence or at full-back, with Kounde fitting that remit.
The Frenchman has been a regular at right-back for Hansi Flick this season, but is also able to play in central defence. The report adds that Kounde is ‘very happy’ and Barcelona and plans to stay at the club for the foreseeable future.
However, he will have two years remaining on his contract at Barcelona and Chelsea could offer him a significant pay increase should he complete a move to Stamford Bridge.
Kounde is said to have a buy-out clause of €1 billion (£840m). However, should they decide to sell then Barca are expected to ask for a lot more than the €50 million (£41.8m) they paid to Sevilla when buying him in 2022.
At that time, Kounde is reported to have snubbed Chelsea in favour of Barcelona.
Jules Kounde in action during the LaLiga match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on February 09, 2025
Jules Kounde during Barcelona's clash against Sevilla (Image: Photo by Jesus Ruiz/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Kounde was dropped to the bench by Flick back in February due to an ‘internal decision’. The defender has however been back in the starting XI for the four La Liga games since that match.
The French international has made 132 appearances for Barca since making the move to the Nou Camp, scoring six goals in all competitions and establishing himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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