Chelsea hope to complete the signing of England forward Raheem Sterling and at least one defender before they set off on their American tour this weekend.
A deal for Manchester City star Sterling is believed to be close, and although the Blues' pursuit of Seville centre-back Jules Kounde has gone quiet in the last 10 days, the powerful French centre-back is still believed to be in head coach Thomas Tuchel's sights.
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly will have to meet the Spanish club's buy-out clause of around £72 million, and Seville sporting director Monchi is reported as saying: "Jules Koundé has chances to leave the club if some club will pay the release clause.
Chelsea made a bid last week but we didn't like it." Chelsea's top priority, before they fly out to the United States on their pre-season tour this weekend, is to sign at least one centre-back – preferably two.