Barcelona are reportedly willing to sell Jules Kounde during the upcoming January transfer window amid strong interest from Chelsea.

The France international was heavily linked with a Stamford Bridge switch before joining Barcelona for €50 million in 2022, and it’s understood that he remains on the Blues’ radar amid the uncertain long-term future of his compatriot Malo Gusto.

Gusto has fallen down the pecking order following the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the new Chelsea manager over the summer, and widespread reports have confirmed that he is assessing his options ahead of January, with the west London giants ready to sanction a sale if a suitable offer is lodged.

Chelsea already have Josh Acheampong, Marco Palestra and injured club captain Reece James as right-back options if Gusto departs, however they are still continuing to scour the market for a potential replacement, with Kounde regarded as one of their preferred options.

This has been confirmed by a report from TEAMtalk, who claim that Barcelona are willing to sell the 28-year-old this winter.

It’s understood that Hansi Flick’s side need to sanction at least one notable sale in order to raise transfer funds, and they are open to offloading Kounde amid strong interest from Chelsea.

TEAMtalk report that Alonso is a huge admirer of Kounde’s ability to play at right-back and centre-back, and a move to London is said to be regarded as an appealing prospect by the France star.

Clubs in Saudi Arabia have also expressed their interest in Kounde in recent weeks, but the 28-year-old reportedly has no interest in moving to the Middle East and has set his sights on a move to a fellow European club.

Chelsea’s January transfer plans revealed

In addition to Kounde, Chelsea are also eyeing a potential move for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, who has been earmarked as their dream January signing.

However, Arsenal and Liverpool are keeping close tabs on his situation too, and it has been reported that Marco Rose’s side are ready to rebuff any approaches they receive during the winter window as they look to win the Europa League this season.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have also been linked with Como duo Martin Baturina and Jacobo Ramon in recent weeks, with the club possibly in the market for a new left winger and a new central defender next year.

The aforementioned Gusto could be set to depart before the winter window closes on 1 February, while Jamie Gittens has been tipped to leave too after a proposed move to AS Roma failed to materialise over the summer.