The Blues are expected to be busy in the final week of this transfer window as they are closing in on the permanent signing of Sevilla defender, with only Kurt Zouma’s departure. Chelsea are also attempting to sign Saul Niguez on loan from Atletico Madrid.
The arrival of Jules Kounde at Stamford Bridge is conditional to Zouma leaving, who has been with a move to West Ham United. According to Sky, an agreement is in place between the two clubs over his permanent transfer. Personal terms previously held up the deal, but there is renewed hope that the 26-year-old will lower his wage demands to sign for the Hammers.
Once Zouma’s proposed transfer to West Ham goes through, Chelsea will ramp up efforts to sign Kounde from Sevilla, reports Fabrizio Romano. Personal terms between the player and the club are thought to be a formality, but the final transfer fees, payment structure, and bonuses are yet to be agreed between Chelsea and Sevilla.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also attempting to bring in Saul Niguez from Atletico Madrid to fill in the fourth midfielder spot, albeit temporarily.
The Blues are competing against Manchester United for the signature of the Spanish midfielder, who Atletico seem happy to lose this summer. Reigning Champions League winner have reportedly submitted an official offer for the Spaniard, which is a loan with the option to buy upon conclusion.
26-year-old Saul has made over 376 appearances for the Rojiblancos after breaking into Diego Simeone’s first team during the 2014/15 season. He has been a key figure for Atletico over the years and even signed a massive nine-year contract, committing his immediate and long-term future to the club in 2017.
If he moves to Stamford Bridge, he will be rotated in central midfield by Thomas Tuchel, along with N’Golo Kante, Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic.
