Chelsea are said to have settled on Barcelona defender Jules Kounde as their priority defensive target in the summer transfer market ahead of Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen.
The Blues take the pitch again on Thursday against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, with the battle for top four intensifying.
Failure to qualify for the Champions League for a third consecutive season could prove problematic for Enzo Maresca in the transfer market, especially if he wishes to sign the likes of Huijsen.
Huijsen is reportedly of interest to teams such as Real Madrid and Liverpool, but it is difficult to see the Blues competing with their European rivals without Champions League football.
However, Spanish outlet Sport claims that Chelsea have identified Barcelona defender Kounde as a primary target ahead of Huijsen.
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Does Kounde make sense for Chelsea?
Sport claims that Chelsea wish to sign a defender capable of playing as both a full-back and as a centre-back, and there are few better suited to such a role than Kounde.
The Frenchman predominantly plays as either a right-back or as a centre-back, and his defensively ability on the right flank has helped him stand out from his peers.
Chelsea captain Reece James was regarded as one of the league's most rounded full-backs, but injuries have plagued the Englishman for years.
Kounde's contract at Barca also expires in the summer of 2026, meaning he will likely be attainable for a modest price this summer should the La Liga club fail to agree an extension.
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What else do Chelsea need?
Though the Blues do need to improve defensively - their record of 37 goals conceded makes them the seventh-best defensive team in the division - they arguably also must focus on reinforcing their attack.
Enzo Maresca's side have looked blunt in the final third for some time, with the club scoring one or fewer goals in five of their last seven league matches.
Cole Palmer has failed to score or register an assist in any of his past 10 outings for Chelsea, so perhaps Maresca should look to provide the Englishman with support in attack as a matter of urgency.
Lewis Nolan
