Chelsea are ready to trigger Barcelona star Gavi’s release clause – which currently stands at £42m.
Blues are eager to profit from the fact that Barca’s finances have collapsed and the midfielder has not yet signed a new contract.
Their economic situation already hurt them when they couldn’t afford to renew Lionel Messi’s summer contract, so he was forced to leave for Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite fears that the departure of the Argentine could lead to mass exodus, Los Cules has so far managed to keep the majority of their team together.
Joan Laporta, the club president, has tried to preserve the young talent from La Masia.
(Image: NurPhoto/PA Images)
Gavi, however, is still waiting to be signed to a new deal.
The 17-year old has seen a meteoric rise in football and has already won four caps with Spain.
He has been paired with another prodigy, Pedri, in Barcelona’s midfield. They have been compared to Xavi as well as Andres Iesta.
Gavi is still weighing the pros and cons of a Nou Camp contract, but Chelsea has the opportunity to join.
According to El NacionalThe Blues are interested in signing the teenage player, as they are looking for new midfielders.
Gavi’s release clause stands at £42m at the moment and the Stamford Bridge outfit believe that would be a brilliant investment, considering the years ahead of the youngster.
Barcelona is confident that the Spaniard will stay in Catalonia and continue their development alongside Ansu Fati and Pedri.
Reports suggested they might leave the club, and the pair have signed new contracts.
They are more dependent on their academy, as Barcelona has been banned from spending money through the transfer window by La Liga.
However, they may be able to spark another golden generation like the one under Pep Guardiola.
Chelsea, on other hand, has other targets in case they fail to land Gavi.
Declan Rice, West Ham’s star player, has been expected to sign. However, his asking price could make it difficult for the Blues to sign him. Aurelien Tchouameni, Monaco’s ace, is also being considered.
