Chelsea could potentially be set for a free run at signing Barcelona’s Ilaix Moriba this summer with Manchester City and RB Leipzig having doubts.
The 18-year-old Spaniard has been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou throughout the summer, with his contract continuing to run down.
It has been reported that the Catalan giants are keen to get him to pen a new deal, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the 2021/22 campaign. In the meantime, whilst the stand-off continues, they have forced the young midfielder to train with the academy sides.
That has consequently seen a number of major European players express their interest in Moriba, with Chelsea having been credited as admirers, whilst the likes of Manchester City and RB Leipzig are also competing for his signature.
Nevertheless, the Blues could be set for a major boost in the race for the youngster if reports in Spain are to be believed.
As per Mundo Deportivo, City are interested in the midfielder but would only make a move next summer when he will be available on a free transfer.
Leipzig meanwhile are not willing to pay the €20m (£17.1m) asking price to take him to Germany this summer.
This would certainly open the door for Chelsea to make a move as the Blues aim to sign a midfielder before the closure of the transfer window. They have also been linked with Monaco’s promising Frenchman Aurelien Tchouameni.
Moriba has certainly developed an exciting reputation in Spain despite having only been handed limited opportunities with Barcelona.
He made his debut for the Spanish outfit in January 2021 and went on to make a further 17 appearances throughout the campaign, scoring one goal.
Moriba has so far not been included in each of Barcelona’s matchday squads against Real Sociedad and Athletic Club. The 18-year-old is current valued at £22.5m by transfermarkt.
