Chelsea stall negotiations for Jules Kounde?

Chelsea have reportedly stalled on negotiations to sign Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde this summer.

The Blues are keen on landing a new central defender, and they recently opened talks with Sevilla for Kounde.

Their initial offer of around €35m plus Kurt Zouma was rejected, and they are yet to make a renewed proposal.

According to Sport, the pursuit has been put on hold as the Blues look to wrap up the signing of Lukaku from Inter.

They recently agreed a €115m fee with the Nerazzurri, and are now proceeding with the formalities to sign him.

Meanwhile, reports elsewhere claim that the Blues are exploring a possible deal for Nerazzurri centre-back Stefan de Vrij.

Inter's owners Suning group have put several players up for sale. It is rumoured that De Vrij could leave for the right price.

De Vrij has been linked with a Premier League on several occasions in the past. He could be available for a lesser fee than Kounde.

Sevilla want Chelsea to meet the €80m release clause on the defender's contract.