Chelsea are making headlines once again, this time for their ambitious plans in the January transfer window.
Reports suggest the Blues are preparing a massive £125 million bid for Barcelona defenders Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde.
Under manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have had a strong start to the 2024-25 season. They currently sit third in the Premier League table, just a point behind Manchester City.
The team’s recent 2-1 win over Leicester showcased their form, with goals from Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez securing three points.
Despite this success, Chelsea seem keen to bolster their defensive ranks further with a high-profile swoop for two of Barca’s brightest talents.
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Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde: Chelsea target duo
According to reports from TEAMtalk, Chelsea have identified Araujo and Kounde as key players to strengthen their squad. Both are integral to Barcelona’s setup under Hansi Flick.
Kounde, who helped Barca win La Liga in 2022-23, has been a consistent presence in their defense, playing all 14 league games this season.
Meanwhile, Araujo is yet to feature this term due to a leg injury sustained during Copa America but remains a top talent.
How old are Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde?
With Araujo just 25 years old and Kounde having recently turned 26, both men also fit the bill for Maresca's current, very youthful, playing roster.
This Blues side are likely to set a tough-to-beat record for most games to start a Premier League season without using a single player over the age of 27, while also seeming to be a lock to break the record for youngest average EPL squad age when the campaign is over.
Where would Araujo and Kounde fit in at Chelsea?
Chelsea’s defensive options already include Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Axel Disasi.
With this depth, some question whether adding Araujo and Kounde is necessary.
However, the Blues seem determined to make a statement with this bold January move.
