Barcelona eventually won the race to take over Jules Kounde from Sevilla and the Frenchman says it was manager Xavi Hernandez who made the difference when he chose Camp Nou over Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea chased the defender for a year and looked set to get him this summer, before Barca hijacked the deal late in the day.
Koude seemed eager to make the switch to the west Londonbut has ended up with the Catalan giants, which he believes is at least partly due to the midfield legend in charge of the club.
“The coach, Xavi, is one of the big reasons I’m here,” said the 23-year-old. ‘I spoke to him several times. The way he spoke was captivating.
“We’ve had good conversations and we see football in the same way. Now it’s a matter of getting into the team, settling in and giving everything to have as many minutes as possible and an important role on the side.”
Barcelona have overcome their financial difficulties enough to pay Sevilla 55 million euros for Kunde and give him a five-year contract.
The France international has longed for a move to a bigger club than Sevilla and now that he’s got it, he’s excited to get started.
“I am very proud and grateful for this opportunity,” he said. “I’m excited because I’m joining a great club with a great team.
“I am looking forward to working with the team and doing my best. Sevilla is of course also a great club, but Barca is the next step in my career at every level.
“I want to participate in all competitions and try to win as much as possible, that’s why I’m here.”
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