Manchester United, Chelsea to battle for Jules Kounde next summer?

Chelsea could reportedly go head-to-head with Manchester United for the signature of Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde during next summer's transfer window.

The Frenchman was strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge earlier this year, but the Blues could not come to an agreement with Sevilla over a transfer fee.

Kounde's La Liga club are allegedly not prepared to let the defender leave in January but are believed to be open to him leaving ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.

A recent report claimed that Man United were in a strong position to sign the 23-year-old, who is thought to have a £69m release clause in his current deal.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea are still interested in the Frenchman and could reignite their interest, as Antonio Rudiger seemingly moves closer to the exit door at the club.

The report claims that Rudiger is closing in on a switch to Real Madrid, which will lead to the Blues signing at least one new centre-back during next summer's transfer window.

Kounde has again been a vital player for Sevilla during the 2021-22 campaign, making 19 appearances in all competitions, including five outings in the Champions League.