Exclusive - Kurt Zouma has told Chelsea he is not prepared to join Sevilla, despite the club's desire to use him in part exchange for Jules Kounde.
The 26-year-old had been earmarked to head to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium as part of the deal to bring Kounde to Stamford Bridge, but that is not an idea the Frenchman is prepared to entertain.
A source has told 90min that Zouma has told Chelsea he wishes to remain in London, and that could hand West Ham a significant boost in their attempts to bring him to the London Stadium. The Hammers are looking to strengthen their options in central defence, and there has already been contact between the two clubs about a permanent move.
News of Zouma's unwillingness to move to La Liga is a blow for Chelsea in their pursuit of Kounde, but is unlikely to deter them from completing a deal. Several players have been offered to Sevilla in exchange, but the club can afford a straight cash purchase should the Andalusian's not be interested in any of the talent offered up.
Chelsea are keen to bring Kounde in as they look to solidify their own backline amid uncertainty about the long-term futures of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger. Both players are heading into the final 12 months of their contracts, and are yet to agree new terms despite head coach Thomas Tuchel's desire to tie them down for the long haul.
More to follow...
Source : 90min