Manchester City to battle Chelsea for Jules Kounde deal?

Manchester City are reportedly preparing to go head to head with Chelsea for the signature of Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde during this summer's transfer window.

Chelsea were strongly linked with the Frenchman last year but were unable to get a deal over the line, with Sevilla refusing to sell for anything under the defender's £75m release clause.

The Blues are allegedly preparing to reignite their interest in Kounde this summer, but according to El Nacional, there is also serious interest from Manchester in the shape of Pep Guardiola's side.

The report claims that the English champions are prepared to part with either Nathan Ake or John Stones to secure a move for the Sevilla defender ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.

The 23-year-old has again been a key player for his La Liga club this season, making 24 appearances in all competitions, contributing one goal and one assist in the process.

Manchester United are also believed to have shown an interest in the centre-back, who has two-and-a-half years left to run on his contract at Estadio Ramon.