Chelsea are making serious efforts to sign Jules Kounde from Sevilla.
The Blues have made the signing of Kounde a priority target after a failed move for Nathan Ake.
Chelsea had seen a bid for Kounde rejected earlier this week, and the Blues have come with an improved offer for the 23-year-old.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed: “Chelsea have submitted a new bid for Jules Koundé today: £55m fee, very good payment terms. Talks now ongoing with Sevilla on structure of the bid.
“Koundé, still in direct talks with both Chelsea and Barcelona on personal terms – while clubs are discussing on details.”
Reports from Spain have claimed that Kounde is already searching for a house in London.
Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui has also admitted that Jules Kounde could well leave the club this summer amid Chelsea interest.
“One very important player, Diego Carlos, left, and maybe the other starting centre back (Jules Kounde) will too,” said Lopetegui.
“We don’t know what will happen. They are difficult to replace and we will have to help Marcao adapt quickly to what’s demanded of him.”