Pranav Nair
Chelsea hold the advantage over Manchester United in the pursuit of Jules Kounde
According to ABC Sevilla (h/t The Sun), Chelsea are leading Manchester United in the pursuit of Sevilla’s talented young defender Jules Kounde.
Thomas Tuchel is eyeing a new defender as a long-term replacement for the ageing Thiago Silva. The Brazilian remains a potent force but will turn 37 later this year. Kounde is at the top of the German’s shortlist as Chelsea look to make their move.
Arsenal have also been linked with the player but with them closing in on securing Ben White, it is debatable if a move will be made for Kounde.
The French international is one of the players on United’s radar as they look for a new partner for Harry Maguire. Sevilla however will not let their star man go for cheap and have slapped a £55million price tag on his head.
Speaking ahead of the Euros, Kounde admitted that he was happy at Sevilla but hinted that he is open to a move to a bigger club. Whether he will get his wish this summer remains to be seen.
Kounde has enjoyed a stellar two years at Sevilla, helping them win the Europa League in 2019-20 and qualify for the Champions League this term. The Spaniards eliminated United in the Europa League semifinals in 2020, giving the Red Devils a first-hand understanding of Kounde’s talents.
United appear to have made Raphael Varane their top target in defence this summer. While the player appears to be ready to make the switch, his wages could prove troublesome. With a big-money move for Jadon Sancho also in the works, it is debatable if we can fork out the money for Kounde. (h/t The Independent)
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Kounde was Sevilla’s club-record signing, having joined from Bordeaux in 2019. It is fair to say that the Spaniards sure got their money’s worth. While they will not stand in his way if he chooses to leave, it will only be at a price that they set.
