Manchester United could reportedly scupper Chelsea's hopes of signing Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde this summer.
The French defender has been widely linked with a move to Stamford Bridge with the Blues baulking at the player's price tag last summer. But with a transfer now able to go ahead following Todd Boehly's takeover of Chelsea, United's plans could get in the way and scupper Sevilla's hopes for Kounde's potential replacement.
It comes as the Blues have been handed a boost in their hopes of signing Ousmane Dembele, with the winger said to be mulling over an offer from Thomas Tuchel's side. Meanwhile Conor Gallagher has opened up about his Chelsea future following his season-long loan at Crystal Palace.
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United could ruin Kounde bid
Manchester United could inadvertently get in the way of Chelsea signing Kounde this summer.
With the defender looking likely to leave Sevilla, the Spanish club had reportedly eyed up Strasbourg's Alexander Djiku as his replacement. But with United also hoping to bring in Villarreal's Pau Torres, Sevilla could be in a race against time to complete both moves.
That is because Unai Emery's side are also believed to be keen on bringing in Djiku should they lose Torres this summer.
Dembele boost
Dembele waited until Chelsea's takeover was completed to decide on his future.
The Barcelona ace is out of contract this summer and could be one of the most sought-after players of the transfer window. The likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked with the Frenchman, although his want to wait for the Blues could be an encouraging sign for the Stamford Bridge side.
And reports coming out of Spain suggest he is on the verge of reaching an agreement with the Blues.
Gallagher opens up on Chelsea future
Gallagher insists he is "not really thought about" his future with Chelsea following his season away at Crystal Palace.
The midfielder enjoyed an impressive campaign in south London, winning the club's player of the season award for his efforts on the pitch. He's due to link back up with Tuchel's squad when they return for pre-season training, although question marks still linger over whether he will be given a chance by the German coach.
But Gallagher says that, for now at least, his focus is on the England squad as they prepare for their Nations League campaign.
