Transfer fees are no longer a problem in the negotiations between Chelsea and Sevilla as Jules Kounde is on the verge of a Stamford Bridge move, according to Diario AS. The Spanish outlet claims that the 23-year-old’s Chelsea transfer is now just “a matter of time”. Kounde has already agreed personal terms to join the Blues, while the west London club’s ownership situation, which was obviously an issue, has reached its conclusion.

Chelsea are expected to pay between €60million and €65m (£51.5m-£55.8m) for the centre-back. Sevilla themselves have begun identifying potential replacements for both Kounde and Diego Carlos, whose transfer to Aston Villa has already been confirmed. Kounde is currently away on international duty with France for their UEFA Nations League fixtures.For Chelsea, Kounde’s potential arrival would not end their search for new defenders.

Thomas Tuchel will at least need two new centre-backs to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. Several names have been linked with a possible move to Chelsea, including RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol and Villarreal’s Pau Torres. Among returning loanees, Levi Colwill, who spent a season-long loan at Huddersfield Town, is certainly an option for the left centre-back spot. Tuchel could also consider using versatile midfielder, Ethan Ampadu, to increase his defensive options next season.

Chelsea have been constantly been tipped to sign the France international defender and the current happenings in the summer have continued to pave the way for a possible Chelsea transfer this summer. With the transfer window close to being officially open, the time may be getting closer for the Blues to have the signing wrapped up. It’s going to be exciting to see how Thomas Tuchel and Chelsea attempt to wrap up the deal, especially because Sevilla are particularly still unwilling to listen to offers for their star man.