The latest on Chelsea’s pursuit of Kounde as deal ‘hanging in balance’

Chelsea linked with Kounde

Chelsea have been linked with a move for Sevilla stopper Jules Kounde for some time now.

The links to the Frenchman emerged back in July, which is also when personal terms were thought to have been agreed:

No deal has yet been forthcoming, however, with it suggested that Chelsea wanted to offload Kurt Zouma before signing Kounde:

And Chelsea do look to have handed a boost on that front, with David Moyes confirming on Friday that West Ham had an offer accepted for Zouma and he was undergoing a medical:

Kounde to Chelsea latest

So, with a deal for Zouma seemingly close to being done, Chelsea fans were no doubt hopeful of seeing Kounde announced soon, especially as it was reported that the centre-back would be out of Sevilla’s squad this weekend.

Now though, the latest update on the situation from Sky Sports News suggests a deal may not be as straight-forward now.

Sky claim that a deal for around €50m had already been agreed with Chelsea. However, Sevilla are now said to be asking for closer to the player’s €80m release clause.

Sky, who stated that the deal ‘is hanging in the balance’, also add that Sevilla are keen to line up a replacement before they let Kounde go.

Aston Villa vs Brentford betting tips: Preview, predictions & odds

Norwich vs Leicester City betting tips: Preview, predictions & odds