Chelsea were left frustrated by Sevilla's behaviour during negotiations for Jules Kounde.

ESPN says Chelsea were 'left bemused' by the situation due to Sevilla's unorthodox approach to negotiations.

It is claimed that Chelsea had all but agreed a deal to sign Kounde for a transfer fee in the region of £43million plus add-ons.

The player himself had also settled on personal terms before Sevilla changed their stance by demanding that his release clause, believed to be in the region of £77m, was paid in full.

Their move was reportedly influenced by Chelsea's decision to sell Kurt Zouma to West Ham United, as it meant the Blues had additional funds and extra motivation to bring in a new central defender.

Although Sevilla were reluctant to part ways with Kounde last month, he is still keen on the idea of joining Chelsea and could push for a departure when the January transfer window rolls around.