Transfer Rumors: Chelsea Out To Spoil Chase For Sevilla Defender

In what is looming to be a move to infuse youth, Chelsea has reportedly joined the race for Jules Kounde of Sevilla Futbol Club.

This would be bad news for two other top English Premier League clubs that have had their eye on the French center-back.

The report comes from Sports Witness, alleging that the Blues have now crowded Manchester United and Arsenal for Kounde.

Even more surprising is that Chelsea is allegedly a favorite to land the French national.

However, sealing the deal with Sevilla for Kounde will still depend on the money needed.

SFC is seeking roughly $77.61 million for the 20-year-old defender. The asking fee has risen considerably since Manchester City had dangled a $65.97 million offer last year that was thumbed down.

Even with Chelsea being said to be in the lead, it raises several questions. The Blues already appear to have a formidable defensive mix in the persons of Antonio Rudiger and Thiago Silva.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel also has Kurt Zouma and Andreas Christensen as alternative options, raising questions on why Chelsea would want Kounde.

The answer to that may be the age of some of the players in the mix. Silva will be turning 37 soon, and Tuchel may be looking toward the future.

Kounde is only 22 and is undoubtedly a wise signing as the Blues invest in players that would be part of the club moving forward.

However, that stiff asking fee may alter the course.

Moreover, the Blues also have to manage interest in certain stars from their end. Billy Gilmour is rumored to leave Stamford Bridge--with Norwich City and Wolverhampton being the top suitors.