General manager Jose Maria Cruz de Andres has acknowledged that Jules Kounde could leave Sevilla during the summer transfer window.

After impressing during his first two years in La Liga, the defender was strongly linked with a move to the Premier League last summer, only to ultimately remain at Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan.

While Kounde has only enhanced his reputation having spent a second season in Spain's top flight, it has naturally led to further speculation regarding his long-term future.

Chelsea are known to be long-term admirers of the 23-year-old, reports persisting that the Blues are willing to spend in excess of £50m to win the race for his signature.

Although the English side are yet to meet Sevilla's asking price, one of the club's officials has hinted that a transfer could materialise over the coming weeks.

Speaking to Sport Witness, Cruz de Andres said: "The player, I am sure, respects Sevilla FC. He is happy with us. In the case of Kounde, it is not a matter of money. It's a matter of him wanting to play in a more competitive team than Sevilla FC.

"I am sure he is a player that is attractive for teams like Chelsea, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich and these types of teams. He wants to play in a more competitive team."

Kounde has made a total of 133 appearances during his three years at Sevilla, his solitary piece of silverware being the 2019-20 Europa League.

While Barcelona have been linked with Kounde in the past, the Catalan giants are currently in no position to sign or prioritise a big-money move for the centre-back.

Andreas Christensen is already said to be on the brink of moving to Camp Nou on a free transfer, Chelsea having confirmed his departure on Friday.

Furthermore, the Catalan outfit allegedly also want to get deals for Ruben Neves and Robert Lewandowski over the line at some point, realistically leaving Kounde as an option way down their shortlist.

However, Bayern could theoretically emerge as a potential destination with Niklas Sule departing for Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer.

The Bundesliga champions are allegedly also ready to consider offers for as many as eight players as they eye somewhat of a summer rebuild.

That particular report claims that raising funds to sign Liverpool winger Sadio Mane is the primary reason, but thought will have to be given to other areas of the pitch.