Chelsea are stepping up their transfer pursuit with the club having seemingly interest in Jules Koundé. The multi-talented Barcelona defender, who was a former number one target for the Blues. With the summer transfer window soon to arrive, Chelsea are reportedly in frequent communication with Koundé’s agents, getting set to submit what could be an impending €100 million offer. This possible transfer follows Barcelona as they continue to work at keeping Koundé on a new contract. But Chelsea, with their new management, appear keen on finally landing the French international at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s Longstanding Interest in Koundé
This is not the first attempt Chelsea have made to sign Jules Koundé. In 2021 and 2022, the London side pursued the then Sevilla defender aggressively but were outgunned at the finishing line by Barcelona, who were able to persuade the player with a strong vision of La Liga football and European success.
Now, in 2025, Chelsea has come back with what appears to be renewed determination. Under Enzo Maresca, the club is rebuilding a backline that has produced moments of brilliance but also inconsistency. Koundé offers the perfect blend of elite-level experience, adaptability, and calmness.
Spanish reports indicate that Chelsea are directly negotiating with Koundé’s agent, paving the way for a summer transfer. The asking price, however, is hefty. Barcelona will likely insist on paying close to €100 million, considering the defender is tied to the club until 2027 and continues to be a first-team regular.
Nevertheless, Chelsea’s new owners have demonstrated a readiness to splurge on main targets.
Barcelona’s Position: Reluctant to Sell
Barcelona is not desperate to sell. Jules Koundé is an integral part of Barca’s setup and has been the bedrock of their defensive prowess. He has operated as a center-back and right-back, offering the Catalan outfit much-needed depth and tactical options.
Spanish sources indicate Barcelona’s board is busy trying to renew Koundé’s contract. But financial considerations cannot be discounted. With the club still getting used to La Liga’s salary cap rules and in need of funds for other signings, a huge bid from Chelsea might try the test their determination.
Should Barcelona sell, they would likely look to reinvest the fee in multiple areas of their squad, including the striker position, especially with Robert Lewandowski aging
Why Koundé Fits Chelsea’s Project
For Chelsea, Jules Koundé transfer is not only a defensive signing but a building block. His versatility in playing in the entire backline makes him a dream transfer for Chelsea.
Chelsea will presumably play a high defensive line that focuses on back-to-front passing, something Koundé is known for. Being able to drive attacks, line-break with passing, and have the ability to cover huge space defensively is a perfect fit within Chelsea’s tactical blueprint.
Further, Koundé also adds European pedigree and a winning attitude. With his experience, he would immediately enhance standards at Stamford Bridge, both in training and on weekends.
Pairing him with Reece James could form one of the Premier League’s most balanced and modern back fours.
Live Update
Chelsea are currently in active negotiations with the agent of Jules Koundé, but no offer has been formally put in. Barcelona is not willing to budge on its asking price. It’s thought that any meaningful attempt will rest on whether or not Chelsea can sell their marginal defenders. This summer transfer market is on track to be pivotal, and the future of Koundé teeters on a knife-edge. If Chelsea does proceed with a formal €100 million bid, it will be one of the headline signings. Watch for progress in the coming weeks as both clubs confirm their transfer plans.
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