The Champions League holders are keen to bolster their defensive options before the transfer window slams shut and have identified Kounde as their main target.
Chelsea tried offering Kurt Zouma plus cash in an attempt to bring Sevilla’s asking price for the defender down, but those talks did not reach a positive conclusion.
It is said that the Blues have not resumed talks with the Spanish top flight club after their initial negotiations did not materialise, though Kounde remains a top target for them.
Sevilla believe Chelsea have not given up hopes of signing Kounde and expect them to make a final attempt to sign him in the final stretch of the transfer window, according to Spanish daily AS.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have sold Tammy Abraham to Roma for €40m and could soon sanction a move for Kurt Zouma, who is wanted by David Moyes’ West Ham.
The funds raised from the sales of Abraham and Zouma could provide Chelsea with a boost in their hopes to sign Kounde before the transfer window slams shut.
Sevilla want a fee in the region of €65m to €70m for the sale of the France international this summer and Chelsea’s initial offer is said to have not come close to that valuation.
Kounde’s release clause in his contract with Sevilla has also risen from €80m to €90m since 16th August and could strengthen the Spanish club’s position in potential talks with Chelsea.
