Chelsea's top target wants Barcelona transfer

Chelsea have been handed a potential blow with Jules Kounde said to favour a move to Barcelona this summer.

The Frenchman came close to joining the Blues during last summer's transfer window, but they could not negotiate a suitable fee with Sevilla.

The La Liga wanted his €80m release clause to be paid in full, but the Blues were reluctant to offer more than €55m for his signature.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Sevilla are now willing to accept a fee of around €65m which the Blues are prepared to pay.

However, they may now need to convince Kounde, who fancies a move to the Camp Nou to work under manager Xavi Hernandez.

Barcelona are currently not in a position to meet the asking price, but are likely to propose a part-exchange deal for the 23-year-old.

The Catalan giants are prepared to include Trincao and Sergino Dest as makeweights to sign the former Bordeaux graduate.

Kounde is currently recovering after a pelvic operation, but he is expected to be fit in time for the new season, likely with a new club.