Chelsea is showing interest in Jules Kounde despite the player wanting to stay.
Coaches from Chelsea attended the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona to watch the Napoli-Barça (1-1) match in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 and, incidentally, to spy on two players: Koundé from Barça and Osimhen from Napoli, as revealed by ‘Hitc football’. However, the player does not currently considering leaving the club, according to Gabriel Sans of Mundo Deportivo.
The English club was one of the main contenders with the Blaugrana to secure the services of the French central defender in the summer of 2022. Koundé ultimately prioritized his move to Camp Nou, thwarting all attempts by Chelsea, which offered him more money and with which he had reached a pre-agreement that proved futile.
The former Sevilla player cost 50 million euros plus another 12 in variables, in addition to a release clause of 1 billion. Chelsea wants him to cover the departure of Thiago Silva, whom it is said in England will not continue as he will not be offered a contract renewal. Newcastle and Arsenal are also said to have him on their agenda.
Since landing in Barcelona, Koundé has spent the entire season alternating between his position in the center of defense and right-back due to technical requirements and the squad’s limitations under Xavi. This season, his appearances are more abundant in the center of defense. Chelsea’s scouts also showed particular interest in Napoli forward Victor Osimhen. They saw him score the equalizing goal.
