Jules Kounde says he is fully focused on Sevilla after Chelsea's failed pursuit of the centre-back in the summer.
The Blues made the Frenchman their leading defensive target in the transfer market that closed a month ago.
The European champions were linked with the Sevilla centre-back throughout August and stepped up their efforts to sign him towards the end of the month.
Chelsea thought a bid of £42.8m would be sufficient to prise the central defender away from the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
Chelsea were then told they must trigger Kounde's release clause, which stands at £68m, to sign the France international.
Thomas Tuchel admitted earlier this month that the club "tried for Kounde" but they were ultimately unable to prise him away from the Spanish side.
“We all know the summer has been hectic, I wouldn’t say complicated. But that’s the past now," he said.
“I am focused on the team. The most important performance is on the pitch. The team needs me and I need the team too to give my best and that’s what I’m trying to do.
“So far I’m happy with the results of the team and my personal performances, although I can still improve and have a better season than the previous one.”
Chelsea could return for Kounde in January or next summer, with Tuchel's defensive options likely to be reduced.
Thiago Silva will be 38 in a year's time and Kurt Zouma was sold by Chelsea last month.
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