Chelsea have reportedly identified the player that will replace Enzo Fernandez at the club following the Argentine’s deadline day move to Manchester City.
Fernandez secured a record-breaking fee move to Man City on deadline day as Chelsea failed in their late pursuit to sign Monaco’s Lamine Camara as his replacement.
The Blues have now identified an Atletico Madrid star to restore balance to his midfield engine room.
According to Fichajes, the west London club is preparing a massive €100 million (£85.6m) offer to tempt Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios to Stamford Bridge in the new year.
Chelsea are reportedly eyeing Pablo Barrios of Atletico de Madrid. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Alonso is said to be a huge admirer of the 23-year-old, believing he possesses the unique blend of technical quality and tactical intelligence required to thrive in the Premier League.
While Chelsea are eager to bring in their top target, Atletico Madrid has no intention of making his exit easy. The midfielder is considered a cornerstone of Diego Simeone’s midfield setup at the Metropolitano.
Barrios currently holds a staggering release clause of €500 million, protecting his long-term future in the Spanish capital.
Chelsea have the fund to bid for Barrios in January but Atletico have proved they won’t let go of their senior players easily, with Julian Alvarez’s summer dilemma a good example.
The club’s hierarchy is well aware that securing a talent of this caliber will require a significant investment, but they view Barrios as the final piece of their midfield puzzle.
With the January window approaching, the Blues are expected to test Atletico’s resolve with their opening €100m package as they look to hand Alonso his dream signing.
