Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has described Blues target Jules Kounde as a 'warrior' who 'has everything'.
The 22-year-old Sevilla centre-back has emerged as one of the continents best young defenders, since breaking into the La Liga side's first team in 2019.
According to Goal.com Chelsea have opened talks with Sevilla over a move for Kounde and Leboeuf is adamant he would be good signing for his former club, but also hinted that he wouldn't walk straight into Thomas Tuchel's side.
'He's (Kounde) a fantastic player,' Lebouef told ESPN. 'He has everything. He is a warrior. He never gives up. He has everything. He is the future for sure.
'Maybe it's an opportunity for Chelsea to get him maybe not this season, but next season.
'I don't know what Kounde wants to do in his life, if he's ready to be on the bench more than he thinks he will be. It's up to him. It would be a good signing for Chelsea.'
The Blues are reportedly willing to offer Kurt Zouma as part of the deal to sign the Frenchman, however Sevilla are refusing to let him leave the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium for less than his £68 million release clause.
It's unclear whether Chelsea would be prepared to spend such a vast amount on Kounde, especially as they've also been linked with a blockbuster move for Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku.
Real Madrid and Manchester United are also rumoured to be interested in Kounde, with both clubs reportedly considering an approach.
The Frenchman has made 89 appearance across all competitions for Sevilla since making his debut two years ago, and was part of the squad that won the Europa League in 2020. Kounde also made his debut for France's senior team earlier this year, and was part of their Euro 2020 squad.
The talented centre-back racked up six goals and two assists for Sevilla last season to help them finish fourth in La Liga.