Chelsea linked with Juve star after deal for Sevilla defender collapses

Chelsea failed to sign Jules Kounde in the summer, after Sevilla turned down their late offer for the defender.

That was a blow to the squad this season – although youngsters like revo Chalobah have stepped up big time – and means that the need to sign a central defender to replace Kurt Zouma remains.

It seems likely the club will return for Kounde in January, and again in the summer, to test Seville’s resolve.

But by then, there will be other options available.

CalcioMercato put Chelsea’s hat in the ring for a player who a few years ago was regarded as the best young centre-back around – Matthijs de Ligt.

While they insist he’s happy at Juventus, his agent Mino Raiola is offering him around top clubs – including Chelsea.

That may be to ensure him a major pay rise in Italy, or because the old lady aren’t as competitive as he would have hoped.

Either way, Chelsea will certainly have a lot to think about before they push all their chips in for Kounde.

Chelsea News