Chelsea is preparing for a big move in the summer transfer window. The English club plans to submit an offer of €70 million to Atletico Madrid for young midfielder Pablo Barrios. The Blues are keen to overhaul their squad for the upcoming season, and Barrios has emerged as a prime target.
Why Chelsea Wants Barrios
Game after game, he has shown how highly valued he is by Chelsea, with the talented 20-year-old impressing at Atletico Madrid. The midfielder has emerged at the heart of the game, creating key passes, and his defensive contributions are attracting interest from Europe. Chelsea views him as a player who would ensure quality and reinforce the midfield. The Blues are looking to rebuild their team under Mauricio Pochettino, who needs youthful and energetic players to fit into the kind of game he is looking to adopt. Barrios is known as a player who is calm and composed and has a good game sense and ball control. He is flexible enough to be played as a defensive or attacking midfielder. Chelsea strongly believes he can be an assistance to this team.
Atletico Madrid places a high price on Barrios, keeping in mind that he has a place in the club’s plans for the future. However, a €70 million bid could turn tough to resist. Atletico are struggling with some financial crises and they may contemplate releasing him if the fee meets their financial aspirations. The ultimate decision will lie entirely with coach Diego Simeone and the club’s executive management in general.
Challenges Chelsea Might Face
Barrios is one of those youngsters eyed by many European clubs, and Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit. Clubs from Spain and England have been rumored to be attracting the forces of Atletico Madrid for his signature. If they want him to be on their books at the club, Chelsea will have to act fast to seal the deal before another team moves in on the player.
Midfield has not been good to Chelsea so far this season. The midfield has been hit by injuries and unequal performance gain. Bringing Barrios to this club would be a good piece for balance and creativity. His talents suit the fast-paced English Premier League, and he could forge a great partnership with Chelsea’s current midfield.
Recruiting Barrios will be a tough job. Atletico Madrid may ask for a higher transfer fee. The player’s willingness to leave his childhood club will play a role. Besides, Chelsea must comply with the financial fair play regulations. The club has spent heavily in previous windows and needs to ensure the financial balance.
Chelsea is expected to put in an official bid soon, and talks between the clubs may commence within a few weeks. If Chelsea’s bid meets Atletico Madrid’s demands, it could wrap up before the new season kicks off.
Summary
Chelsea’s interest in Pablo Barrios sends a clear signal to fans that they want to strengthen the squad. An offer for him of about €70 million is an indication of what perchance could be very helpful to it. If it goes through, it would mean an invaluable asset for Chelsea for years to come. Fans are expected to keep a very watchful eye as the negotiations unfold.
