Newcastle United are prepared to challenge Chelsea in their plans for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.

Mundo Deportivo says Chelsea and Newcastle are both willing to meet the release clause in the contract of Kounde but Barcelona are also interested.

Barca, due to financial difficulties, may not be able to afford the £69million it will take to buy Kounde.

Therefore, Xavi's side are weighing up alternative options such as offering players as part of the deal.

Sergino Dest is one man that Barcelona would be willing to send to Sevilla to help lower the fee for the centre-back.

Chelsea and Newcastle, meanwhile, have the spending power to meet the player's buyout clause.