Chelsea 'disappear off map' in Jules Kounde pursuit after prioritising another centre-back

Sevilla have been left bemused by Chelsea’s pursuit of Jules Kounde with the west Londoners having ‘disappeared off the map’ as they target another centre-back instead, according to reports.

The Blues have been linked with a move for the France international for well over a year and had even agreed personal terms last summer – though were ultimately unable to agree a fee with Sevilla.

Back then, the Spanish side were adamant he would only depart if a team triggered his buyout clause but are now prepared to accept offers of around £50million.

Chelsea had been expected to renew their interest, with Thomas Tuchel in need of two new centre-backs after losing Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger on free transfers.

But Spanish newspaper Sport claim Chelsea have not made contact with Sevilla, with the Andalusian club confused by the Premier League side’s approach and attitude.

After pressing to sign Kounde for over a year, they have now ‘disappeared from the map’ and Sevilla want an update on their intentions.

The Spanish side have asked Chelsea to clarify their position before July 5, with their own transfer plans on hold until they know if Kounde is definitely leaving or not.

The player himself wants to go and has also been ‘somewhat surprised’ by Chelsea not following up on their interest, having agreed personal terms last summer.

Kounde is still more than happy to accept those same terms and the deal would be relatively straight forward to complete, but Chelsea now appear to be prioritising a different centre-back instead.

Tuchel has set his sights on landing Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt, who could be available this summer – especially if the Italian giants want to raise funds to sign Neymar.

There is a sense from