Yesterday, Fabrizio Romano announced that Chelsea had missed out on Jules Kounde to Barcelona, in a deal which has done Tottenham a favour.
What’s the story?
Well, Chelsea had earmarked the France international as a priority target, after facing problems in their pursuits of Nathan Ake and Presnel Kimpembe.
However, after Barcelona beat them to Kounde, the Blues are furious.
As a result, Spanish outlet SPORT believe they have blocked contact with Barcelona, signalling an end to negotiations involving Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta.
Now, here’s where Chelsea’s stubbornness benefits Tottenham.
After the Blues gave them the silent treatment, Barcelona have supposedly ditched a move for Alonso, and are now targeting Tottenham left-back Sergio Reguilon, a player Spurs actually want to sell.
Fabio Paratici – Director of Football at Tottenham – has even been offering the Spain international around Europe, with Inter Milan contacted over a potential deal.
Therefore, if Barcelona end up signing Reguilon because Chelsea threw a tantrum, it would be hugely ironic.
Not only would Chelsea be helping out a direct rival, but they would also be leaving Thomas Tuchel with two players in limbo – especially Alonso, who has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona.
Tottenham must be baffled by Chelsea actions
In our view, we’re not exactly sure why Chelsea think they are hurting Barcelona by blocking moves for Azpilicueta and Alonso.
The latter acts as deputy to Ben Chilwell in the left-back department, so he isn’t necessarily a vital player at Stamford Bridge, while Azpilicueta turns 33 next month and is in decline.
It would be better for the Blues to cash in on both and reinvest that money in a Kounde alternative, rather than play hardball because Barcelona beat them to the Frenchman’s signature.
Nevertheless, Chelsea’s stubbornness will be Tottenham’s gain if it helps them sell Reguilon.
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