Manchester United could hamper Chelsea's chances of signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with Barcelona eager to finally register Jules Kounde amid financial fair play concerns. The 33-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer as Thomas Tuchel looks to bolster his frontline.
football.london understand that the Blues submitted a £22million bid for the Gabon international on Wednesday evening. It's said that the west Londoners are very confident that the Spanish giants will accept their latest proposal.
Tuchel is eager to reunite with Aubameyang, who prospered under the German's stewardship at Borussia Dortmund. The Chelsea boss has specifically identified the striker as a priority signing before the window slams shut at the end of the month.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly can sign perfect 'Didier Drogba heir' if Chelsea win £40m transfer race with Man Utd
However, despite the Blues' best efforts, United could spoil Chelsea's chances of landing the former Arsenal captain. According to the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are considering a move for Memphis Depay.
Erik ten Hag's interest in the Dutchman coincides with Tuchel's interest in Aubameyang, all while Barcelona are in desperate need of £20million to finally register Kounde without breaching FFP rules, as per the Evening Standard. Therefore, the Spanish giants could treat proceedings on a first come, first served basis, with Chelsea and United in a race against one another to wrap up a deal.
When asked of Aubameyang in a pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea's clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Tuchel said: "I enjoyed a lot working with him [at Borussia Dortmund]. It was a pleasure.
"This has nothing to do with the situation now, but players stay your players because you work very, very close. Auba is one of these players. We had a very close relationship. Always when we played him here with Arsenal, there was always straight away this close bond. They always stay your players in a way, Auba is one of these guys."
Barcelona fans have since been pleased with the striker to stay at the club. On Monday, supporters waited outside the training complex to welcome players to training. Upon Aubameyang's arrival, they shouted: "Auba, don't go."
READ NEXT:
Thomas Tuchel new Chelsea attack if £22m Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang transfer is confirmed
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel responds to Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi transfer talk
Chelsea must spend £18m more to sign Ivan Toney over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Full Chelsea Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
Chelsea transfer business under the microscope in 'good deal' or 'bad deal'
