CHELSEA have been told to stump up £68million if they want to sign highly rated French defender Jules Kounde from Sevilla, according to reports.
The Blues have already had a bid rejected for the 22-year-old centre-back, believed to be worth £30m plus Kurt Zouma.
But according to Goal, the LaLiga outfit are looking to get a fee close to Kounde’s release clause, which is believed to be £68m.
Chelsea are keen to include Zouma in any possible deal, which could lower Sevilla’s asking price.
Although Sevilla are looking for cash, rather than a player, a deal could be struck for a fee close to £40million plus Zouma.
With Kounde impressing last season, he isn’t short of suitors.
LaLiga giants Real Madrid are also believed to be tracking the Frenchman’s situation.
Manchester United are also weighing up a potential move after completing the signing of Raphael Varane from Real.
The Frenchman is believed to be extremely keen on a move to the Premier League as he wants to test himself.
However the France international has a contract at Sevilla until the summer of 2024.
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Kounde has already hinted that he may change clubs this summer after participating at this summer’s Euros with world champions France.
He said: “Regarding my future, it is certain that I will perhaps have to change clubs this summer, but nothing has been finalised yet, I have not decided anything
“My goal is to play in a big club to try to always progress and to win trophies. I might have to move, but that’s not relevant today.”
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