Early in the transfer window, it appeared that Chelsea would chase Sevilla man Jules Kounde to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. However, a new report from Fabrizio Romano via CaughtOffside mentions that the club may have changed course and the French defender is no longer a priority.
Romano mentioned that Kounde was a target of Marina Granovskaia, while the new owner and handler of transfers Todd Boehly has set his sights on other targets.
Chelsea Change Defensive Transfer Strategy Under New Ownership
New Targets
Instead of the 23-year-old French defender, the London side are focusing their intent on Juventus‘ Matthijs de Ligt and Manchester City man Nathan Ake, a former blue himself. Barcelona are also interested in the Sevilla man which could present a further issue if the Blues were to follow up their initial interest.
Read More: Chelsea Transfer Budget Revealed With Thomas Tuchel Promised Up To Six Summer Signings
Boehly has come in like a wrecking ball and set about getting deals done for the players he and manager Thomas Tuchel want, Kounde could be a casualty of this as the club focuses their attention on a reunion with Ake and acquiring Juventus’ star defender.
New Plans, New Tactics?
According to a new report from The Athletic, German boss Tuchel has an increased role in transfers as he looks to build a data-driven squad capable of playing the football he wants. With this comes the mention that he may be aiming to change formation next season from a 3-4-3 to something with a back four.
Read More: Chelsea Close to Agreeing Fee with Sought-After Raphinha
A back four puts less pressure on the club to sign high-quality centre-backs which would make Ake and De Ligt perfect additions, one versatile option who can provide depth, and one to partner Thiago Silva full time.
