Chelsea pip Barcelona to Jules Kounde signing by sending Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso to Camp Nou – Paper Round

Chelsea involved in multiple deals for defenders Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde, according to the Standard. The 23-year-old has agreed personal terms with Chelsea, but Barcelona are also in the race to secure Kounde’s signature. The report states that Sevilla would rather sell abroad to Chelsea than to a Liga rival and negotiations around a £51-million transfer fee have been ongoing with the Premier League club.

Chelsea are also in talks over a £50-million deal with Paris Saint-Germain to sign Presnel Kimpembe, but believe the French defender will reject a move. Defensive duo Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso have agreed “lucrative” contracts with Barcelona, but Chelsea are still in negotiations over transfer fees with the Catalan club. Ad/> /> TransfersTottenham confirm signing of Spence from Middlesbrough14 HOURS AGO Paper Round’s view: There’s a lot to digest there.

Chelsea are hoping to add to the signing of Kalidou Koulibaly with Kounde and Kimpembe. It makes sense – even though they will spending a huge amount of money on centre-backs this summer. They need to replace Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and now Azpilicueta – who is reported to be heading to Barcelona.

Thomas Tuchel could end up with a whole new set of centre-backs (except Thiago Silva). Kounde would be a brilliant addition alongside Koulibaly, while Kimpembe would give them the defensive depth needed to compete for multiple trophies this coming season. Read the full story Forest in advanced talks with Lingard Nottingham Forest are in «advanced talks» to sign free agent Jesse Lingard, according to the Telegraph.