Just in: Jules Kounde rejects Chelsea offer, will wait for Barcelona

Another bombshell has dropped in the topsy-turvy transfer saga of Sevilla starlet Jules Kounde, as Diario AS are now reporting that the French defender has turned down Chelsea’s offer in favour of one coming from Barcelona.

The Spanish outlet state that Kounde is closer to Barcelona than ever, and has always prioritized a move to the Catalan giants despite a favourable offer from Chelsea, and a near-total agreement between Sevilla and the London club.

Earlier reports also suggested that Barcelona have been waiting for the right moment to advance negotiations with Sevilla, and total agreement between the clubs is very close.

Coach Xavi Hernandez has reportedly played a pivotal role in the saga, maintaining regular contact with the 23-year-old, highlighting that Kounde will be one of the cornerstones of his defence.

This confidence from Xavi has supposedly prompted the Frenchman to hold out for an offer from the La Liga giants, which could be made very soon after the activation of the second economic lever is confirmed.

Numerous sources highlight that Barcelona’s final offer is lower than that of Chelsea’s, but the Blaugrana are reportedly offering a lump-sum amount which appeals to Sevilla more than the payment in instalments agreed with Chelsea.

Nothing seems to be official as of yet, but the race to sign the talented youngster remains open. Chelsea are by no means out of the race as they have submitted a suitable offer.

The onus now lies entirely with Barcelona and Kounde, depending on how much longer he wants to wait.