Chelsea looking to derail Barcelona deal for dream £17m Kante partner

Chelsea are looking to butt in on Barcelona’s transfer talks with the agent of Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, according to a report.

Rabiot moved to the Bianconeri in the summer of 2019, arriving on a free transfer after his contract expired. He appeared to be a solid acquisition, having already emerged on the international stage for France. But despite playing a regular role so far, he has continually faced speculation over his future.

Indeed, Everton have had most links with a swoop for the 26-year-old. Meanwhile, Manchester United have also showed interest in the past.

However, reports earlier this month brought Chelsea into the equation.

Now, Calciomercato claims that the Blues are looking to beat Barcelona, who have also joined the race.

In fact, Barca chiefs have made contact with Rabiot’s agent and mother Veronique.

However, Chelsea have a couple of existing links to the player, not least his former association with manager Thomas Tuchel while the pair were at Paris Saint-Germain.

What’s more, Rabiot is an admirer of his fellow Frenchman N’Golo Kante, saying during the most recent international break: “He never stops running. It’s easy to play alongside him.”

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel lauds N'Golo Kante

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel lauds N'Golo Kante and explains why he rates the French midfielder so highly.

Therefore, the report claims that Rabiot could link up with his compatriot, who continues to make waves.

Indeed, Kante won the Man of the Match award in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.

Juventus open to Rabiot transfer

As for Rabiot’s future, meanwhile, Calciomercato adds that Juve are open to selling the player this summer.

Given they signed him for free from PSG, they are looking to make profit.

However, €20million (£17million) could prove a decent fee for a player who has proved a regular feature this season and is an established international.

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Furthermore, he is only 26 and has many more years left at the top level to reach his top level.

In any case, Juventus will reportedly ‘evaluate’ each offer that comes in for Rabiot.

READ MORE: Tuchel compares Chelsea outcast to Ballack in hint at U-turn over future