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#3 Jules Kounde
Jules Kounde was heavily linked with Chelsea in the 2021 summer transfer window, but that move didn't transpire. However, this transfer saga might finally reach its conclusion in the upcoming winter transfer window.
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The Sevilla centre-half could potentially be Chelsea's first signing in the January transfer window. But the Blues will face tough competition for his signature. The Blues will be joined by the likes of Manchester United and Real Madrid in the transfer market. Both these clubs will be desperate to add to their centre-back ranks, which could add a few more millions to Kounde's valuation.
If reports are to be believed, Jules Kounde has an €80million release clause in his contract. This could prove to be a stumbling block in the negotiation phase. However, the 23-year-old can justify his enormous price tag as he is currently one of the best centre-backs in La Liga.
In the 2021-22 season, Kounde has registered 13 appearances for Sevilla. He has helped keep six clean sheets in the 2021-22 La Liga campaign.
#2 James Tarkowski
James Tarkowski has established himself as one of the most solid and consistent centre-backs in English football at the moment.
Since his move away from Brentford in the 2016 winter transfer window, Tarkowski has been one of the first names on Burnley's team sheet. The Clarets are highly regarded for their defensive solidity and it is the only reason why they survived the drop last season.
The former England international is an indispensable component of Burnley's defense and is their leader at the back. Over the years, Tarkowski has garnered interest from several clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham and Newcastle United, to name a few.
According to reports, James Tarkowski is keen on a move to West Ham in the upcoming transfer window. However, Tarkowski is valued at around £20 million by Burnley, which could be more than what the Hammers are willing to pay.
#1 Stefan de Vrij
Stefan de Vrij has reportedly attracted interest from Newcastle United and could well be their first signing in the new era.
The Dutchman has established himself as one of the best centre-halfs on the continent, having won the 2020-21 Serie A title with Inter Milan. De Vrij is currently a regular starter for club and country, and his stock has risen rapidly over the past few seasons. Inter Milan could be skeptical of parting ways with their star defender midway into the season.
However, the enormous reserves of the Newcastle United owners might be enough to convince the Nerazzurri to sell. Newcastle will also face tough competition from Tottenham Hotspur for De Vrij's signature.
The Dutchman's former manager Antonio Conte is a fan of the centre-half and could be reunited with him at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
De Vrij has played in all of Inter Milan's Champions League matches this season. He has also participated in 92% of Nerazzurri's minutes in the 2021-22 Serie A season.
