Aston Villa rival Chelsea for ambitious €55-60m transfer with help of key connection

Aston Villa are reportedly considering an ambitious move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Kounde, who has recently been linked with Chelsea, has not fully met expectations since joining Barcelona from Sevilla, where he was once considered one of the most promising young defenders globally.

Despite Chelsea’s continued interest in Kounde, Villa’s Monchi and Unai Emery are eager to leverage their connections with him to bring him to Villa Park. The potential deal could amount to €55-60 million, as per Todo Fichajes.

A move to Villa could provide Kounde with an opportunity to rejuvenate his career, especially under Emery’s guidance, who has significantly improved several players at the Midlands club, propelling them into contention for a top-four finish.

Kounde transfer: Should the Barcelona defender choose Villa or Chelsea

Looking at the current Premier League standings, opting for Aston Villa over Chelsea might seem like a straightforward decision for Kounde.

However, could Chelsea still entice the 25-year-old to Stamford Bridge by offering him a pivotal role in their ambitious long-term vision?

Although Chelsea is undergoing a transition phase and might not resemble the powerhouse they once were, their owners have demonstrated a commitment to a comprehensive, long-term strategy.

This strategy includes substantial investments in players who have the potential to fulfill their promises, albeit not yet realized.

Joining Chelsea would position Kounde as one of the more seasoned members of the squad, allowing him to provide guidance to the younger players while offering him a fresh start following his struggles with the demanding expectations and standards at Barcelona.