Sevilla defender Jules Kounde was left out of Sevilla’s pre-season training camp in Portugal as Chelsea continue talks with Sevilla to sign the defender.

The Blues had submitted an improved bid of £55m for the 23-year-old, and with his move being certain, he didn’t join his teammates to Portugal.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had claimed: “Official. Jules Koundé has been left out of Sevilla’s squad for upcoming pre-season friendly in Portugal, as negotiations are still ongoing.

“It was already decided internally, as Sevilla are in talks to sell Koundé this week.”

Kounde shocked everyone at his club when he ended up catching the bus to Portugal, as they’d camp in the southern city of Lagos.

Sevilla are heading to Portugal as part of their preparations for the new La Liga campaign.

According to The Sun, Kounde says he considers it ‘unprofessional’ to stay in Spain and train alone while he remains a Sevilla player.

A club insider said: “It is still highly likely he will join Chelsea. Everybody was stunned when Kounde turned up for the bus to Lagos.

“But he feels he should be a ‘professional’ while still a Sevilla player.”

So far, Barcelona are yet to table a bid for Kounde.