Chelsea one step away from signing Jules Kounde

Chelsea are reportedly one step away from signing Sevilla defender Jules Kounde this summer.

The Frenchman was linked with the Blues last summer, but they were reluctant to trigger his €80 million release clause.

This time around, Sevilla are willing to accept a lesser fee, and Sport claims that a deal is close to completion.

The Blues' opening offer of €55 million was rejected by the LaLiga outfit, but they have made an improved €60 million bid.

The proposal is expected to be accepted by Sevilla, considering there are no better offers on the table for the 23-year-old.

Barcelona are also keen on landing Kounde this summer, but they can't afford to pay more than €45 million for him.

Meanwhile, Kounde's preference has been to join Barcelona, but he is said to be tempted by the Blues' transfer approach.

He agreed terms with the west London giants last year, and they have now offered him a very high financial package.