After Chelsea announced Thiago Silva will return to Fluminense this summer, the Blues have now reignited interest in a player Thomas Tuchel almost signed in 2022.

The Brazilian is departing Stamford Bridge when his contract expires in July – after spending four years in west London following a free transfer from PSG in August 2020.

With Mauricio Pochettino set to lose a senior figure in his backline, there is – again – interest in a player Thomas Tuchel nearly brought to Chelsea…

Chelsea reignite Jules Kounde interest

A story from Mundo Deportivo now claims that Chelsea want to sign Barcelona No.23 Jules Kounde this summer.

The Spanish giants actually beat Chelsea to the France international’s signature back in July 2022 after sealing a €55m (£47m) agreement with Sevilla – despite several bids from the Blues, according to ESPN.

There was even talk of a swap deal involving Kurt Zouma at one stage.

Mundo Deportivo explain how Barcelona need to sell a central defender this summer due to financial issues, and deem Kounde as someone who may be expendable given the depth in that department.

The Spanish news outlet mention the fact Xavi already has Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez and Eric Garcia who can play in the centre of defence.

Given the volume of interest in Kounde, Barcelona see the Frenchman as one of the most likely to be sold – as things stand.

Mundo Deportivo add that Manchester United, Inter Milan, Newcastle and Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in securing the 25-year-old’s signature.

Versatility will attract Mauricio Pochettino

In our view, Kounde’s versatility will be attractive to Pochettino.

The man from Paris can also operate at right-back, making 23 appearances in that position for Barcelona this season.

Therefore, Kounde would be able to cover for Malo Gusto if the Chelsea No.27 suffered an injury, in the event that Reece James – who is really struggling with his body after missing 38 games this season – is also absent.

Despite the sadness associated with Silva’s imminent departure, signing Kounde would be a fantastic way to ease the pain for Chelsea fans – be sure to keep a close eye on this saga.