CHELSEA are ‘convinced’ that Jules Kounde will head to Stamford Bridge this summer, according to reports.
The Blues are ‘adamant’ the 23-year-old is the man they want to replace any summer exports.
Key defenders Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta are all out-of-contract in July.
They could all be tempted to leave on free transfers at the end of the campaign.
And Marca have reported that landing Kounde is their ‘the number one objective’.
The Frenchman was set to move to the West London side last summer but the deal broke down.
The defender acknowledged it bothered him at the start of the season.
He is one of the most promising centre-backs in LaLiga and is also proficient if asked to play at right-back.
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At 5’11”, Kounde is quick, good with the ball at his feet, but also surprisingly good in the air.
Chelsea are also directing interest towards Brighton’s Adam Webster.
Jamie Carragher called him ‘England’s best defender when it comes to passing out from the back with both feet’.
Tipped for a call-up to the national squad, he is attracting the attention of Thomas Tuchel.
The 27-year-old could replace any parting defenders in the Blues’ new look defence.
Meanwhile, the club have been told by PSG that Marquinhos is not for sale.
Captain Azpilicueta has allegedly got a deal in place to join Spanish giants Barcelona.
Rudiger has been stalling on a new deal for months with the defender said to be undecided where his future lies – with many clubs expected to make him offers.
Meanwhile Christensen is said to be Borussia Dortmund’s top target this summer.
