In a recent report, The Mirror claimed that Chelsea have given a deadline of July 5th to complete the transfer of Sevilla defender Jules Kounde. It is believed that the Blues have already agreed on personal terms with the player but are yet to finalise a fee with the Andalusian outfit over a move to bring the Frenchman to Stamford Bridge.
Kounde’s Good Run Of Form In Spain Last Season
Kounde had a solid campaign at Seville recently as he continued to perform at a high level for Julen Lopetegui’s side on the defensive end of the pitch. The French centre-back featured in 44 matches for his current employers last season, netting three goals and grabbing one assist across all fronts.
The 23-year-old was a dominant presence at the heart of Sevilla’s backline after he averaged 1.3 tackles, 0.7 interceptions and 3.1 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga. He was even tidy with his ball distribution as he completed 88.9% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Chelsea Given July 5th Deadline To Land Kounde: What Should Be Thomas Tuchel’s Play?
Kounde can time his tackles well to secure possession back inside his half. He is usually quick to read the danger and doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive.
The French defensive ace can even put his body on the line to make a few important blocks for his team on the defensive end of the field. He is an accurate passer of the ball as well which makes him an ideal fit for Thomas Tuchel‘s brand of football at Stamford Bridge.
Therefore, the Chelsea boss would be wise to try everything in his power to get a deal done for Kounde as he would serve as an ideal replacement for Antonio Rudiger who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer recently. At 23, the Sevilla centre-half will only get better with each year, so the West London outfit can expect to make the most out of his services if they can successfully snap him up this summer.
