Chelsea’s failed move to sign Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde will bring about good news for as many as three of Thomas Tuchel’s defenders. The Blues have been targeting French defender Kounde for two years, but the transfer is now reportedly off after the Spanish club recently increased their asking price.
Chelsea's move for Jules Kounde has collapsed (Image: GETTY)
Silva came on for the second half against Liverpool at the weekend and his side put on a defensive masterclass to secure a 1-1 draw.
Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta have been selected ahead of the former PSG defender, but the collapsed transfer will be a welcome boost for Silva, who is looking to push his way back into the first-team.
At 36, Silva is certainly not getting any younger, but the Brazilian still has plenty to offer at an elite level.
Cesar Azpilicueta
The Blues captain would also have been likely to get less minutes with Kounde’s arrival.
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Tuchel would have slotted Kounde in at right-centre back in a back three system, leaving Azpilicueta to compete with James for the right wing-back slot.
James has had a fantastic start to the season – which has seen him score and provide two assists in the first three league games – and Azpilicueta may have missed out as a result.
The latest developments with Kounde come shortly after the 32-year-old is reportedly set to be offered a new contract at Stamford Bridge.
Trevor Chalobah
Thiago Silva will get more game time as a result (Image: GETTY)
The 22-year-old defender has featured in two of the Blues Premier League games so far this season, but he too would have missed out if Kounde had moved to Stamford Bridge.
Chalobah has already had three loan spells – at Ipswich, Huddersfield and French side Lorient respectively – and the Frenchman’s arrival could have led to another period away from Chelsea for the youngster.
The defender will now look to try and cement his place in the first-team in the season ahead under Tuchel.