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LONDON. — Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Sevilla defender Jules Kounde, who appears to be closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge, according to reports.

The Blues are said to have negotiated a five-year deal with the French defender, with talks at club level still believed to be ongoing.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Chelsea are now in direct contact with Sevilla as they look to establish a transfer fee that would see Kounde’s move to west London given the green light.

The proposed switch is believed to be some way down the line, with the player himself open to joining the newly-crowned European champions. The Blues are said to be keen on reducing Sevilla’s asking price, with the Spanish La Liga heavyweights likely to demand a significant fee to part ways with the 22-year-old.

Kounde has recently established himself as one of the finest young defenders in world football and played a crucial role for Sevilla last season.

He made 49 appearances for the Andalusian outfit in all competitions, with his impressive form at the back earning a call-up to France’s 26-man squad for Euro 2020.

A successful move for Kounde, who has also been linked with Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham in recent months, would serve as a significant coup for Chelsea ahead of the new season.

Thomas Tuchel is believed to be in the market for additional reinforcements at the back, with a number of Blues players facing uncertain futures.

Chelsea’s defensive strength played a huge role in shaping the club’s recent Champions League triumph, but the German boss is understood to be keen on adding further quality in order to mount a renewed English Premier League title challenge.

Kounde’s impressive versatility, quick turn of pace and cultured range of passing would stand him in good stead to succeed as part of Tuchel’s back three when the season gets underway next month.

The Sevilla man recently hinted at the possibility of a summer move by declaring that he is unlikely to stay with his current employers beyond the end of the summer transfer window. — The Daily Express.