Chelsea transfer target Jules Kounde explains key reason for snubbing Premier League side

Chelsea have spent the last two years chasing Jules Kounde, but the French defender has finally put to bed any hopes of joining the Blues this summer by signing for Barcelona.

The former Sevilla man has so many admirers in England, but it was Chelsea who discovered his traits and were hell bent on securing his signature to strengthen their backline.

Multiple reports even claimed that he had already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, but this turned out to be smoke and mirrors.

The 23-year-old will now play his football in Barcelona and says it was the influence of Xavi, Barcelona’s iconic midfielder now turned coach, who tilted the move towards joining the Catalan club.

He told the club’s official website: “The coach, Xavi, is one of the big reasons why I am here, too.

“I spoke with him several times. The way he spoke was captivating. We had some good conversations and we saw football in the same way.

“Now it’s a question of coming into the team, settling in and giving my all to have as many minutes as possible and an important role in the side.”

The defender is the second transfer target Chelsea have missed out to Barcelona this summer following Raphinha’s decision to turn down a chance to play for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

Chelsea have now turned their attention to Leicester City’s Wesley Fofana who is highly regarded in the Premier League.