When scanning the continent for defensive reinforcements, top European soccer clubs’ eyes often fall on Sevilla duo Diego Carlos and Jules Koundé. Pulling off such transfers is no easy feat, mind, and the club’s hardline approach towards such deals means both will stick around in Andalusia until this summer, at least.
European champion Chelsea was amongst those reportedly interested in French international Koundé and will probably resume its pursuit this summer. Newcastle United, another Premier League name, was in for Carlos yet—even with money to burn thanks to financial backing from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund—was unable to land the Brazilian for now. Both players, especially Koundé, have the raw ingredients to compete at the top level and space to improve; Sevilla is holding out for as much money as possible should they leave.
If it wasn’t clear enough already, Sevilla’s status as European soccer’s most stubborn negotiator is confirmed, as clubs take stock of the January transfer window and plan for the next one. Realistically, Sevilla is the only credible candidate for the La Liga crown alongside leader Real Madrid, with the hierarchy disinclined to sanction two stars exiting at present.
In all likelihood, Koundé, who has been subject to transfer links for some time, is ready for a new challenge. Regardless of his or others’ desires, Sevilla tends to remain steadfast in such matters and would recoup just over €160 million ($180 million) were it to fully cash in on their top defenders later this year. Both players’ release clauses (Spanish) are reportedly around €80 million ($90 million) as Diario AS suggests.
Sevilla is not afraid to lose their best players. But only if the price is right. And if they leave at the right time. The side often distributes spending evenly across the entire squad, and receiving a considerable amount would allow it to do this before next season. Sporting director Monchi appreciated Newcastle’s late bid for Carlos but was never in any mood to authorize a sale without an immediate replacement prepared.
Refusing sales could prove the most telling business from this window in Spain. Without his prized central defenders, mounting a serious title challenge appears challenging for manager Julén Lopetegui. Carlos and Koundé have led the sturdiest backline in La Liga, conceding the fewest goals in 16. In this sense, it has mirrored Atletico Madrid’s gritty displays that won the league last season.
In the offensive third, Sevilla has chosen to move. On first viewing, drafting in wingers Erik Lamela and Anthony Martial on loan may have seemed uninspiring given their lack of playing time at Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. They present an intriguing investment opportunity, though. Being surplus to requirements at their parent clubs has allowed Sevilla to seize an opportunity few top clubs would have taken, hoping a change of scene can help them rediscover their form. Lamela and Martial are yet to turn 30.
The league chaser has nothing to lose this season when you consider many doubted a title race at one stage. Real will remain the runaway favorites when La Liga resumes, but Sevilla has consistently churned out results instead of fading, as it seeks to achieve something historic.
What drives results on the pitch is, in part, the board’s strategy when it comes to players. Repeatedly refusing overtures from interested parties has ensured Sevilla’s competitiveness at the highest level. When the time comes, it will have plans in place to rejig the squad and go again, under one of the most meticulous operations in European soccer. Until then, keeping two talented players is the natural decision.
