Real Madrid have had “initial contacts” with the agent of Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde, according to Footmercato.net.

It was confirmed by The Athletic‘s David Ornstein on Monday that the Frenchman is being targeted by Arsenal, but the competition for the Frenchman’s signature appears to be ramping up.

Foot Mercato report that Kounde is being eyed as a possible replacement for Raphael Varane, who could leave the Bernabeu this summer with one year remaining on his contract.

Coincidentally, the World Cup winner could end up playing in the Premier League as well, with Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea reportedly keeping tabs on his situation.

In regards to Kounde, though, Varane’s departure would not be good news for Arsenal, especially if Real do get involved in the race. The Gunners were not confident of making a deal happen anyway, due to his £50m asking price and the fact they can’t offer European football. We shall see how this transfer story develops.