West Ham United end interest in Chelsea defender

West Ham United have reportedly ended their pursuit of Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma.

The Hammers recently agreed to pay €30m for Zouma and entered discussions over personal terms.

Having found breakthrough over the contract, the move has now stalled due to a disagreement with the Blues.

The exact reason has not been revealed, but it could possibly be related to the structure of the payments.

The Blues are keen on signing Jules Kounde with the funds recouped, and may have asked a straight cash deal.

Kounde has been the Blues' top central defensive target, and they have yet to meet Sevilla's valuation for him.

He has a €90m release clause on his contract, but the La Liga outfit are willing to accept €70m up front.

The Blues were aiming to make an approach for Kounde after freeing up space with Zouma's departure.

Zouma appears unlikely to join the Hammers. He could still head for the exit door with interest from Tottenham.