Chelsea transfer target Jules Kounde has reportedly angered Sevilla following the defender's latest injury whilst on international duty.
Kounde aggravated an old pelvic injury during France's 1-0 home defeat to Croatia in the Nations League on earlier this week being withdrawn after just 35 minutes. Sevilla confirmed the 23-year-old underwent surgery this week, but the Spanish club are reportedly fuming that their prized asset could have risked a sale this summer.
Sevilla are in need of money having already parted ways with Kounde's defensive partner Diego Carlos, with the Brazilian joining Aston Villa. The La Liga outfit have been aware of Chelsea's interest since last summer and wish to complete a deal that would see the France international make the move to Stamford Bridge ahead of next season.
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According to the Daily Mail, Kounde's operation is set to fix a long-standing issue but his employers are livid with the 23-year-old's choice to play for his nation, risking a potentially lucrative sale this summer. The Blues are short of centre-backs following the departure of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, with Kounde being a priority signing according to reports.
The France international's surgery has reportedly been successful with the defender set to be available for the start of the 2022/23 campaign. Sevilla are keen to conclude a deal with Chelsea so that the Spanish outfit can complete their own transfer business using the money generated from the 23-year-old's sale - though Barcelona are also reportedly interested in the centre-back.
The Blues have been linked with a number of defensive alternatives as Thomas Tuchel looks to rebuild his squad with Milan Skriniar and Pau Torres both being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge. Todd Boehly is set to back Tuchel heavily in the transfer market as Chelsea enter a new era following Boehly's £4.25billion takeover.
