Chelsea transfer target has already admitted he’d rather play for Xavi than Thomas Tuchel

Injuries, such as the long-term ACL absence of Levi Colwill, have exposed the fragility, leaving the Blues vulnerable to set-pieces and quick transitions.

Meanwhile, Kounde has enjoyed another impressive season in Spain, appearing 48 times and helping Barcelona secure the Spanish Super Cup.

His ability to defend high up the pitch and operate calmly in possession is exactly the profile Chelsea has desperately lacked.

QUARTER-FINAL 1: Reece James vs Estevao Willian

Jules Kounde enjoyed playing under Xavi at Barcelona

It has been reported that Chelsea have an interest in signing Barclona defender Jules Kounde all these years later, but he’s seen as non-transferable.

Interestingly, it could have been different if it wasn’t for Xavi at Barcelona, as Kounde preferred the approach in comparison to Thomas Tuchel when he was Chelsea boss (Goal).

“I enjoyed our conversation (with Xavi)” he said. “Time flew by, and that’s always a good sign when you’re talking so naturally. We mainly talk about football, which is what I like talking about most, especially with the manager, Xavi, who was one of the best players ever.

“I spoke to Tuchel and felt that he wanted me to go, but I simply preferred Xavi’s approach.

“I chose Bara because I know that most of the time I will play in this position (centre-back).”

Xavi’s win rate is impressive – would you take him at Chelsea?

He’s won 156 of 244 games.

Chelsea have blown their chance of signing Kounde

Chelsea’s attempt to finally land Jules Kounde this season will once again falter.

The Blues’ lack of guaranteed Champions League football for the 2026/27 campaign has severely hampered their bargaining power.

Plus, given the fact that the Chelsea players will be forced to have their salary reduced by between £30,000 and £40,000 per week — roughly £2 million per year — if, and when, they miss out on Champions League football. So they’ll struggle to meet his demands.