Chelsea prioritising summer deal for French star

Chelsea are reportedly prioritising a move for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde during the summer transfer window.

The Frenchman was their top defensive target last summer, but a deal failed to materialise before the transfer deadline.

The Blues were looking to pay around £42 million for the player, but Sevilla were firm on his £67m release clause.

It is now reported that the centre-back continues to remain on the club's radar, and a fresh approach will be made.

The west London giants could have a busy summer ahead with a number of players leaving on possible free transfers.

Andreas Christensen, Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger are the centre-backs whose contracts expires in June.

Azpilicueta could stay due to an extension clause on his deal, but the club don't have the same luxury on others.

Kounde agreed personal terms with the Blues last year. He could be one of the top targets alongside Juventus' Matthijs de Ligt.

De Ligt is ready to move on from the Bianconeri this summer, having snubbed a renewal beyond June 2024.