Chelsea have already “put in place plans to sign” Sevilla defender Jules Kounde, according to Goal‘s Blues correspondent Nizaar Kinsella.

While the London club are currently unable to bring in players, it is believed the recruitment team have made preparations to secure Kounde’s services once the club’s takeover by Todd Boehly’s consortium is made official.

Sevilla are reportedly holding out for around £59m to sell Kounde and, while it isn’t known how big Chelsea’s budget will be, it seems officials are hoping that Boehly will give strong backing to manager Thomas Tuchel in the transfer market.

The Blues are thought to have plans to strengthen all areas of the team. Another centre-half after Kounde is also likely to join, while a replacement for Marcos Alonso (who is expected to move to Barcelona) will also need to be found.

Signings in midfield and up front are also likely as the London club look to rebuild after what has been a tumultuous season off the pitch.