Chelsea have contacted Alejandro Balde’s entourage to show their interest in signing the Barcelona youngster, according to reports in Spain.
The 18-year-old has been watched by the Blues for several years as a youth prospect, believed to be backed as a future star by those at Stamford Bridge.
This comes as Barcelona are unwilling to let up in their pursuit for Chelsea duo Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta.
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It was previously reported that both Alonso and Azpilicueta were set to meet with Chelsea to discuss their futures amid the interest, with it unclear as to whether this meeting has taken place yet.
Despite being targeted by Xavi’s side, the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital consortium, are yet to finalise any plans for this transfer window, including the future of the pair.
Barcelona are said to be hoping that Chelsea will offer Alonso and Azpilicueta ‘the letter of freedom’ to depart Stamford Bridge, allowing them to leave for a ‘very, very affordable price’ during Thomas Tuchel’s rebuild this summer.
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It remains unclear as to whether the Blues will sanction the move for their Spanish duo, but they appear to be targeting a Barcelona full-back of their own this summer.
Mundo Deportivo report that Chelsea are ‘returning’ in a move for Balde, having been huge fans of him in the past and trying to sign the winger at youth level.
Tuchel’s side are said to be ‘very attentive’ to the 18-year-old and have even asked the Catalan club about his situation, as well as contacting Jorge Mendes, his agent, to show interest.
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The Blues reportedly asked about his availability in the winter transfer window as well as back in 2020 and Chelsea could see him as an ideal long-term candidate to play at left wing-back if Alonso is to depart.
The player is contracted with Barcelona until 2024, with a huge release clause but wishes to play regularly, indicating this to his club.
It is believed that as Barcelona have negotiated for Alonso and Azpilicueta, Chelsea have brought up Balde’s name and are keen to work out a deal which will see the youngster arrive at Stamford Bridge if either of their current Spanish defenders depart.
Marcos Alonso previously admitted that he dreams of a move to Spain one day as he said: "I can’t complain about anything at Chelsea, but the desire to play in Spain is there. It doesn’t depend entirely on me and I’m happy at Chelsea, honestly.”
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As negotiations continue with Barcelona, Bale could be brought in as a like-for-like replacement this summer.
Topics: Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Chelsea, Barcelona, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso, Football
Nick Emms