Chelsea have reopened talks with Sevilla over a potential deal for Jules Kounde, according to reports.
The French centre-back has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in recent weeks, but Chelsea appeared to place their pursuit of the defender on the back-burner as they focused on the signing of Romelu Lukaku from Inter.
The Belgium international scored on his second debut for the Blues in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Arsenal.
Kounde has emerged as Chelsea's leading defensive target, but time is running out for the club to strike a deal.
The Athletic writes that West Ham are willing to meet Chelsea's asking price of £25.7m for Kurt Zouma.
The Frenchman's wages could yet be a sticking point but West Ham will hope to agree personal terms with the centre-back.
Davide Zappacosta is on the verge of joining Atalanta on loan with an option to buy the right-back for £8m.
Malang Sarr is wanted on a loan by Bologna, while Ike Ugbo is on his way to Genk for £5m and Tiemoue Bakayoko is set to join AC Milan on a temporary basis.
Having successfully negotiated exits for some of the fringe members of Tuchel's squad, Chelsea are now ready to step up their interest in Kounde.
The centre-back is available for £68m due to a release clause in his contract with Sevilla.
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