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Chelsea's summer transfer ambitions have hit a snag as their midfield target, Pablo Barrios, has decided to sign a new long-term deal with Atletico Madrid. Transfer expert Matteo Moretto reports that the 21-year-old Spaniard will be staying at the Wanda Metropolitano until 2030, which effectively rules out any chance of him moving to Stamford Bridge.
Barrios had been on Chelsea's radar, with the Blues keeping a close eye on his development under Diego Simeone. The young midfielder had a standout season in La Liga, displaying the technical skills and tactical awareness that caught Chelsea's attention.
Initially seen as a potential replacement for Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea's midfield strategy has shifted. With Fernandez now likely to remain at the club and Romeo Lavia back to full fitness, the urgency for midfield reinforcements has lessened.
Consequently, Chelsea's interest in Barrios had already started to wane before his contract extension was announced. While they missed out on Barrios, Chelsea is still active in the transfer market, focusing on three key areas:
Central Defender: Candidates include Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace and Dean Huijsen from Juventus.
Right-Footed Left Winger: They are eyeing Nico Williams from Athletic Club and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens from Dortmund.
Striker: Key targets are Victor Osimhen from Napoli and Benjamin Šeško from RB Leipzig.
With several players likely to leave, including Axel Disasi, Joao Felix, and Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea is gearing up for a squad overhaul. The club's recruitment team will now shift their focus to securing their main targets in other positions.
Barrios' choice to stay with Atletico Madrid is a missed chance for Chelsea, but the Blues seem to have backup plans ready. As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Chelsea's transfer strategy.
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