Chelsea have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde, as Todd Boehly's takeover edges closer over the line.
Current Blues defenders Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen will depart West London for Real Madrid and Barcelona this summer, leaving Thomas Tuchel in need of some new recruits in the heart of defence.
Kounde has been a key figure in Julen Lopetegui's side this season, featuring 43 times for Sevilla and chipping in with three goals across all competitions.
According to Goal, Chelsea have already made a verbal agreement with the 23-year-old and a contract has been drawn up, after negotiations with Kounde fell through last year.
A transfer fee between the Premier League giants and the Spanish outfit is what is left to be decided, with Sevilla reportedly asking for around £59m, needing at least £38m to balance their books before the end of next month.
In total, the France international has made 132 appearances for Sevilla, having joined from Bordeaux in 2019.
Sammy Wynne
