Chelsea’s January thinking around Jules Koundé is being driven by Malo Gusto's uncertain future as much as by any admiration for the Barcelona defender. Gusto has had limited game time in the early months of this season, while Barcelona have already given the green light for Kounde to leave ahead of the winter window. Kounde is also described as a defender who can cover both centre-back and right-back.

Gusto’s situation at Chelsea

The right side of Chelsea’s defence is where this starts. Reports have suggested the club were open to selling Gusto in the summer and even set a £75m asking price for potential suitors, while interest from elsewhere has not gone away.

The numbers around his season help explain why the conversation has not faded. Gusto has made 7 Premier League appearances in 2026 and logged only 311 minutes. That is the kind of usage that keeps a January alternative on the table, even before you get to the broader uncertainty around his future.

Why Kounde fits the move

Kounde is not being linked simply because he is available. His preference is to remain in Europe, with the Premier League his main priority, and a move to London is also understood to appeal to him. He previously came close to joining Chelsea before moving to Barcelona, which gives this rumour a cleaner footballing fit than most mid-season links.

Barcelona’s position also matters. They have already given the green light for Kounde to leave ahead of January, but there is still a wider question over whether that means a firm approval for an exit or just openness to talks. Their January plans depend on generating funds through player sales, so any deal would still need the right terms.

Kounde has made 18 all-competitions appearances across club and international football in 2026, with 357 minutes in his last six La Liga matches. He has also played 6 La Liga games in 2026, which is enough to show he is active, but not enough to remove the feeling that Chelsea are looking at a player who could slot in quickly if the market lines up. Stamford Bridge is already part of the story, and Xabi Alonso is too, but the more immediate issue is whether Chelsea decide Gusto’s future is open enough to move for a replacement in January.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 5 outlets. How we work →