Barcelona have agreed a four-year deal with Jules Kounde, according to Sport.
The LaLiga giants now believe they can wrap up a transfer for the Sevilla defender this week.
Chelsea had been confident of landing Kounde, as Thomas Tuchel seeks to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer.
The Blues seemed close to sealing a £55million deal on Friday, but Barcelona are now set to hijack the deal.
Barca manager, Xavi Hernandez, has played an instrumental role in persuading Kounde to reject a move to Chelsea.
The Catalans have now agreed personal terms with the 23-year-old, who will commit to a four-year deal at the Camp Nou.
While Barcelona’s offer will fall short of the £55m bid tabled by Chelsea, they plan to pay their entire fee up front and believe Sevilla will accept their terms.
