Chelsea make surprise enquiry for Barcelona star

Chelsea have made a surprise enquiry for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde as they seek to shore up their backline further in January.

The Blues have been long-term admirers of the France international and were first interested in signing him from Sevilla a few years ago.

Kounde was a central defender during his time in Seville, but he has predominantly played as a right-back for the Blaugrana.

His current deal does not expire until June 2030, but there are concerns over his future, with Joao Cancelo preferred over him in many games.

With the emergence of Xavi Espart in the left-back position, summer signing Cancelo has added more competition for Kounde this season.

This could possibly lead to his departure and it is claimed that Chelsea could bring him in with the assurance of regular playing time.

They could provide regular minutes for Kounde as a central defender in a back three. Arsenal are also admirers of the ex-Sevilla man.