Chelsea draw up four-man defender shortlist including Jules Kounde

Chelsea are poised for a busy summer window after the completion of a highly-anticipated takeover by American billionaire Todd Boehly.

Thomas Tuchel is in dire need of defensive reinforcements after the confirmed departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. Meanwhile, Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso are expected to follow suit this summer.

As per a report from Sky Sports, the Blues have drawn up a four-man shortlist to reinforce their backline: Jules Kounde, Josko Gvardiol, Jose Gimenez and Presnel Kimpembe.

Kounde turns out to be the priority target for the west Londoners, having missed out on him last summer.

Fabrizio Romano recently reported that the Blues want to sign the French centre-back at all costs and are ready to open negotiations with the Andalusian outfit.

A huge chunk of money – he holds a release clause of €80 million – is required for Kounde’s signature, but with the backing of new ownership, the Blues are expected to press ahead.

Atletico Madrid’s Jose Maria Gimenez, who was linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the past, is another name considered by the Blues.

However, a deal looks unlikely since the Uruguayan international has a contract until 2025, and he is also expected to be in the plans of Diego Simeone.

Tuchel is also eyeing a reunion with Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Presnel Kimpmebe, who he tried to sign last summer.

But Les Parisiens are unlikely to let go of the French international, who is considered the key player for their defence.

Finally, the Blues have been tracking RB Leipzig’s young defender Josko Gvardiol, who was a revelation in the recently concluded Bundesliga campaign.

Tuchel’s side is expected to face competition from European heavyweights, including fellow Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the Croatian’s transfer.