Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Strasbourg star Valentin Barco Caught offside.
After making the move from Argentine giants Boca Juniors to Brighton and Hove Albion, the 21-year-old struggled to find his feet in the Premier League. Therefore, he was loaned to Sevilla ahead of last season to play regularly and develop his career.
However, he failed to break into the Andalusian side’s starting line-up, so the Seagulls opted to bring him back midway through the season. Barco joined Strasbourg on loan in January and showed glimpses of his qualities in Ligue 1 last season.
That’s why they decided to secure his service permanently last summer. He started his career as a left back, but Lian Rosenior turned him into a midfielder. In thirteen league starts so far this season, he has contributed five goals, helping his side to a European place.
After showing his qualities in the French top flight, Barco was called up to the Argentina national football team for the final international matches.
Now, Caught offside claim that after being impressed with Barco’s performances for Strasbourg, Chelsea have shown an interest in signing him.
However, the purchase of the youngster will not be easy for the West London club, as Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid are also planning a takeover.
Chelsea and Strasbourg are owned by Todd Boehly, which could give the Blues an edge in this race. Moreover, the two clubs have done some business in recent years.
Barco to Chelsea
The South American is valued at around £13 million Transfer market and has three and a half years left on his current contract. So it is likely that Strasbourg will demand a significant amount of money to allow their star man to leave.
Barco is a technically gifted left-footed midfielder. He is efficient in playing threading passes between the lines and is also efficient in defensive contributions.
The former Brighton star has the necessary attributes to thrive in Enzo Maresca’s possession-based system. So he would be a huge coup for Chelsea if they were to buy him.
However, it will be interesting to see whether the west London club will ultimately make a concrete move to lure Barco to Stamford Bridge in January or next summer.
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