Barca close to Kounde?

The longest going transfer saga has continued as there is yet another twist in Chelsea's attempts to secure Jules Kounde. Although the Blues felt confident they had done enough to secure his signing at the start of the weekend, Barcelona's apparent U-turn to prepare a bid has put this in doubt.

Fabrizio Romano took to Twitter, saying: "Barça preparing opening bid - won't match £55m, as structure will be different. No Depay and/or Dest included. Chelsea's £55m bid, still valid in Sevilla's hands."

Barcelona have received indications from Jules Koundé's camp in the last hours: the player would be prepared to accept personal terms proposal. Xavi, also called him. #FCB

Chelsea discussed personal terms with Koundé days ago, but still no green light from Sevilla/player. pic.twitter.com/7oNXcnHa66

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2022

He then went on to later reveal that, "Barcelona have received indications from Jules Koundé's camp in the last hours: the player would be prepared to accept personal terms proposal. Xavi, also called him.

"Chelsea discussed personal terms with Koundé days ago, but still no green light from Sevilla/player."

This was in contrast to the thought that Xavi's side had decided against a bid, with Si Phillips earlier saying that any Barcelona bid would fall more than £25m short of Chelsea's.

The Blues still remain confident at sealing a deal for Kounde but are also aware that the longer it continues to drag on, the more chance that something moves against them, especially with Kounde so willing to wait for a Barcelona offer.