Chelsea will consider returning for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde in the next two transfer windows, according to reports.
After Chelsea’s failed pursuit in the recently closed window, Thomas Tuchel hasn’t given up on his primary centre-back target.
The European champions were closing in on a deal for Kounde before Sevilla demanded that suitors meet his £68million release clause.
Tuchel sanctioned the £30m sale of Kurt Zouma to West Ham United to accommodate Kounde, but the transfer fell through.
The 22-year-old is widely considered one of the brightest young defenders in Europe after a terrific 2020/21 campaign in La Liga.
He was reportedly desperate to join Chelsea, though, and would surely be open to a switch in an upcoming transfer window.
According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea will continue to monitor Kounde ahead of a potential move in January and next summer.
The Blues remain interested in Kounde’s services are there’s a chance they could resurrect a deal as early as the new year.
He will remain a critical fixture in the Sevilla defence and will look to impress Chelsea throughout the remainder of the season.
It’s no secret Tuchel is eyeing a replacement for Kounde and will likely get one within the next 12 months.
Tuchel still has strong centre-back options without Jules Kounde, so missing out on his signature this summer isn’t a major blow.
The German boss has Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Trevor Chalobah to pick from this term.
Christensen has particularly started the season in terrific form in the heart of Tuchel’s back three and is currently keeping Silva out of the team.
He put in a Man of the Match performance in the Blues’ 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield last Saturday.
The 25-year-old recently suggested to Danish media that he’s in talks over a contract extension at Chelsea.
He told Extra Bladet: “I know a lot is being said right now. I can’t say too much, but I think it looks good.
“We have won the Champions League and the Super Cup. I am very happy to be at this club and feel Chelsea are the right place to be in England.
“I know Thomas Tuchel believes in me. I have also played a big role since he came.”