Chelsea are reportedly preparing to push for a £50m deal, which would include adds-ons, for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.
On Saturday morning, it was confirmed that the Premier League club are on the brink of being taken over by a consortium led by Todd Boehly, a deal expected to be made official on Monday.
Once the transaction is finalised, head coach Thomas Tuchel will move to revamp his squad, a project which will including signing a number of new defenders.
Speculation persists that Kounde will be the first fresh face to arrive at Stamford Bridge, even with the France international possessing a £68m release clause.
However, according to The Telegraph, the Blues will attempt to sign Kounde for £42m, which will rise to £50m with adds-ons.
As it stands, the expectation is that Sevilla will demand significantly more for one of their key men, particularly with central defensive partner Diego Carlos already on his way to Aston Villa.
Nevertheless, Kounde has no desire to extend his contract past 2024, realistically leaving Sevilla to find a compromise with his long-term suitors.
Darren Plant
