Enzo Maresca is reportedly in the market to sign one of the best defenders in Europe as Chelsea look to compete for the Premier League title next season.
The Blues have brought in dozens of players, and that recruitment process is starting to pay off under Maresca.
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Nigerian players like Mikel Obi and Victor Moses were deemed not good enough to make the best Chelsea team in the last 120 years.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Chelsea have identified Jules Kounde as their main target, with the Blues coming close to signing the France international under Thomas Tuchel in 2022
The report adds that Kounde, who is out of contract in 2027, has yet to reach an agreement on a new deal, although he’s said to be happy at Barcelona.
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Jules Kounde is adept at centre-back and right-back (Credit: Imago)
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Barcelona defender Jules Kounde (Credit: Imago)
Kounde, who has previously been linked with Chelsea, has established himself as a key player for Hansi Flick, with Barcelona top of La Liga and in the Champions League quarter finals.
His versatility, able to star at right-back and centre-back, makes him an intriguing addition and instant upgrade to almost any team in Europe. His arrival in England could also see him rival Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina for the title of best right-back in the division.
Chelsea also remain keen on adding a new striker to the team, with the likes of Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Ipswich’s Liam Delap reportedly being considered.