Chelsea
Premier League • England
Chelsea left stumped by double U-turn in chase for classy Barcelona midfielder as reported ‘talks’ involve another big name
Chelsea appear to have taken a blow to their hopes of signing Barcelona midfielder Gavi following conflicting reports that emerged on Wednesday.
Just 24 hours earlier it had been reported by AS that Gavi’s agent Ivan De la Pena had a meeting with the Blues in Madrid a few weeks ago to discuss the possibility of the Nou Camp star moving to Stamford Bridge in the summer.
The report added that the London club are planning to hold further talks with De la Pena to outline the potential operation in more detail, adding that the two parties have agreed to continue ‘moving forward’ over the high-profile transfer.
However, following that claim from AS, Mundo Deportivo then spoke with Gavi’s camp to get an update on the rumours.
And now the Spain international’s entourage have denied any talks and claim ‘there’s nothing with any club’.
Mundo adds that while talks did take place between the two clubs, they were not relating to Gavi and were instead to do with Luis Enrique potentially becoming Chelsea’s new permanent manager.
AS then responded, however, by reporting that a second chat between De le Pena and the Blues will take place ‘soon’.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is expected to attend the meeting, along with the player’s parents and his representative.
Boehly desperate to get Barca man on board
Boehly is said to ‘want to convey’ to the Spaniard’s parents the important role Gavi will have in his club’s project and also answer any questions they might want to ask.
For his part, the Liverpool and Manchester City target has not completely ruled out at move to The Bridge, although his initial plan is to remain in Catalonia where he is under contract until 2026.
Barca’s current financial issues continue to throw doubt over the future of some of their top stars.
The LaLiga giants need to lower their wage bill enough before June 30 or Gavi can become a free agent, as his new contract will only kick in if Barca comply with the rules.
Chelsea are, therefore, waiting in the wings and the report adds that they are willing to make the midfielder ‘one of the highest-paid players’ at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are back in action on Saturday when they host Brighton in the Premier League.