Chelsea have once again shown interest in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde and are also monitoring Bournemouth`s Dean Huijsen.
The Blues are in the market for a top-quality center-back following Thiago Silva`s departure from Stamford Bridge last year.
According to reports, Chelsea are considering making another offer for Kounde, 26. They previously attempted to sign him from Sevilla in 2022, but Barcelona secured his transfer for £42 million.
Sources indicate that Chelsea are looking for a central defender who is also capable of playing as a full-back, making the French international an ideal choice for manager Enzo Maresca.
Initially, Kounde was expected to play as a centre-back for Barcelona under former coach Xavi. However, Xavi recognized Kounde`s abilities at right-back and shifted his position.
Current Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has continued to utilize the Frenchman on the right side of the defense, where he has proven to be one of the top performers in Europe.
Kounde is reportedly “very happy” in Barcelona and is interested in signing a new contract. His current contract expires in 2026.
However, the defender is aware that he could potentially earn a higher salary at Stamford Bridge, given Barcelona`s ongoing financial challenges.
Furthermore, Kounde would likely play in his preferred centre-back position if he were to join the Premier League club.
Barcelona have a strong presence in the right-back position and are reportedly planning to pursue Bayer Leverkusen`s Jonathan Tah this summer.
Chelsea are prepared for potential difficulties in signing Kounde.
This is why they are also considering Bournemouth`s Huijsen, 19, as a possible summer transfer target.
However, sources also suggest that Real Madrid are also monitoring the Spanish international.
