Chelsea preparing €150 million offer to sign 2 Barcelona stars in blockbuster double deal: Reports

Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a massive defensive overhaul. The Blues are targeting two key FC Barcelona players — Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo—in a move that could shake up the upcoming transfer market.

According to Graeme Bailey on TBR Football (via The Hard Tackle), the West London club are keen on signing the duo. Moreover, Ficahejs claim the Blues are willing to spend a staggering €150 million to secure the services of the Barcelona pair, strengthening their defense for the future.

Chelsea’s defensive frailties have been a topic of concern despite an overall solid performance this season under Enzo Maresca. While the likes of Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana have impressed, the Blues still lack a clear leader in the backline.

This issue was only exacerbated following Thiago Silva’s departure in the summer, leaving Chelsea to search for top-tier alternatives. Kounde and Araujo have now emerged as their primary targets.

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Is the Barcelona pair the right fit for Chelsea?

Ronald Araujo, known for his physical dominance and leadership from the heart of defense, has become a pivotal figure for Barcelona in recent seasons. However, the Uruguayan international is currently recovering from injury, which has kept him sidelined for much of this campaign.

When fit, Araujo’s no-nonsense style and ability to marshal the defense make him a perfect fit for a Chelsea team in need of a strong, commanding presence.

On the other hand, Jules Kounde, who can play both as a center-back and right-back, has proven his worth in high-pressure situations at Barcelona. His versatility and consistency make him a highly sought-after player, and Chelsea’s interest is not new.

The Blues reportedly attempted to sign Kounde in 2022, but Barcelona ultimately won the race for the Frenchman. Both players fit Enzo Mareca's desire for a defensive rebuild, and the club are now reportedly ready to make a significant investment to bring them to Stamford Bridge.

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A touch decision for the Blaugrana

The Spanish giants, however, are unlikely to let go of either player without a fight. Both Kounde and Araujo are key figures in Xavi Hernandez's system, with the Uruguayan already being a crucial part of the squad before the arrival of new coach Hansi Flick.

Despite Araujo not featuring under Flick yet, his importance to the Blaugrana remains undisputed. Losing either of these defensive titans would be a massive blow to Barcelona’s future plans.

Yet, the Blaugrana's ongoing financial struggles mean that Chelsea's €150 million offer could be a tempting proposition for the Catalan giants. More so if they are to balance the books and strengthen other areas of the squad.

While Barca's stance is expected to be firm, the Blues' approach could test the limits of their financial situation. If the west London succeeds in prying Kounde and Araujo away from Spain, it would mark a bold move to shore up their defense for the long term.