Chelsea weighing up surprise January swoop for €45 million-rated Barcelona defender | OneFootball

In a rather surprise development, journalist Graeme Bailey via TBR Football, reports that Premier League big-spenders Chelsea are considering making a play for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde in the January transfer window.

The 25-year-old has been in top form this season under Hansi Flick and it appears that Chelsea, who have been long-time admirers of the Frenchman, are weighing up a move for the defender.

Chelsea want a new right-back

As per the report, Chelsea are in the market for a new right-back after seeing their club captain Reece James succumb to one injury setback after the other.

There are huge concerns growing surrounding the England defender and as such, manager Enzo Maresca has sought the signing of a new right-back as early as January.

As such, the Londoners have set their sights on Kounde – a player that they fought hard to sign back in 2022 only to see him choose Barcelona.

Chelsea have taken an interest in Kounde. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Apart from Kounde, Chelsea also have Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong on their agenda for the winter.

Kounde not going anywhere

Despite Chelsea’s interest, it is extremely unlikely that Kounde will be leaving Barcelona anytime soon, let alone during the middle of a season.

The 25-year-old French international was attracting interest during the summer as well, but neither the club nor the player entertained the possibility of a departure.

Kounde has established himself as the first-choice right-back at Barcelona and has been performing at a high level this season.

The former Sevilla man is one of four players to have played every minute of football this season under Flick, highlighting his importance in the team.

The defender is contracted until the summer of 2027 and as Barça director Deco made it clear in a recent interview, the club do not plan on selling their important players.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.