Chelsea reportedly eye Kounde in January, fee said to drop to £45m

📰 Chelsea, who have struggled at the back, are reportedly considering a January move for Jules Kounde, who has lost his place at Barcelona. 📌 Key points ✅ According to TEAMtalk, Xabi Alonso has approved a move for Kounde. 💷 TEAMtalk say the fee could be as low as £45m. 🔁 Kounde can play at right-back or centre-back. ⚔️ Bayern and four Premier League clubs are reportedly also watching. 📝 His Barcelona contract runs until June 2030. 📝 What happened 🔎 TEAMtalk reported on 30 September that Alonso had approved a move for Kounde and that the player is keen on Chelsea. Barcelona have reportedly told his camp he could leave in January or in summer 2027. 🪑 Kounde has fallen down the pecking order under Hansi Flick. Sports Mole say he has started only twice for Barcelona this season. 🛡️ Chelsea have conceded 12 goals in five league matches, the most in the division. TEAMtalk also note that Malo Gusto's future is uncertain, adding to the need for cover at right-back. ⚔️ On 5 October, Sports Mole reported that Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool are also tracking him. Barcelona are expected to listen only to a very high offer. 📊 By the numbers • Reported fee: £45m (TEAMtalk) • Contract expires: June 2030 • Chelsea league goals conceded: 12 in 5 games 🔭 Why it matters Strengthening the defence is seen as Alonso's top priority for January. But with heavy competition and a long contract, a deal is far from straightforward. Chelsea host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on 10 October.