One of Barcelona's newest signings, who was on the brink of joining Premier League side Chelsea before making the switch to the Camp Nou, has now revealed why he turned the Blues down and opted to sign for the Catalan giants instead.
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Jules Kounde is one of the most highly rated central defenders in world football today, and, following yet another successful 2021/22 season with Sevilla, was tipped for a massive move to one of Europe's elite teams.
Many clubs were in contention to sign him, with the Blues and the Blaugrana the main protagonists for the Frenchman's signature in the past transfer window.
The 23-year-old was believed to be on the cusp of joining the west London side before opting instead to switch Andalucia for Catalonia.
Speaking to L'Equipe as to why he rejected Chelsea, Kounde said: "It is true that I was not far from signing there [for Chelsea] this summer. Barca were interested but had concerns. But when I got that phone call and I felt that Barca had the possibility of bringing me in, I didn't hesitate much."
When asked if he had discussions with former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, the French star added: "Yes. I also felt a desire to make me come, but I simply preferred Xavi's speech."
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The Paris native has enjoyed a brilliant start to the LaLiga season, having yet to concede a goal in his three starts for Barca in the Spanish top flight, while also bagging two assists in that period.
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