Chelsea locked in battle with Real Madrid to sign 19-year-old midfield starlet: Reports (Source: Both images from Getty)
Chelsea locked in battle with Real Madrid to sign 19-year-old midfield starlet: Reports (Source: Both images from Getty)
Chelsea are locked in a battle with Real Madrid and other European clubs, as they bid to sign 19-year-old midfield talent Dario Essugo. As per reports via Tribuna, Barcelona are in the race for his services, with the Catalan giants looking to overtake Los Blancos. However, a report from The Sun (via The Hard Tackle) has revealed the Blues' interest in Essugo's services.
The 19-year-old began his youth career at Santa Maria, before joining Sporting CP's youth academy at just nine years of age. He has grown in leaps and bounds with the Portuguese giants, breaking into their first team when he was 16 years old in 2021.
He has also been recognized as one of Portugal's most exciting talents, having played through the country's national youth teams. He currently plays for the Selecao's U21 side, which he joined at the age of 18.
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This season, Dario Essugo is on loan at Las Palmas in Spain, where he has played 12 La Liga games so far, with one goal coming against RCD Mallorca in November. His impressive performances have unsurprisingly led to interest from across Spain, with clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid monitoring his growth.
Chelsea are also interested in making a move for the 19-year-old, as they continue their hunt for the youngest and brightest talent in world football. Indeed, the Blues have focused on a transfer strategy to sign young players, and Essugo could be next on their list.
It won't be an easy task though, with the report from Tribuna claiming that the midfielder has a release clause of €60 million. The Blues will need to face off against competition from the Spanish giants if they are to sign him. The report from The Sun also claims that Leeds United are interested in his services, and this could pose problems for the Blues.
Real Madrid dealt blow as transfer target renews contract with Chelsea
Real Madrid have been dealt a blow in the transfer market, after their target Josh Acheampong renewed his contract with Chelsea. Los Blancos reportedly had their eyes on the 18-year-old, who has played two Europa Conference League games for the Blues this season.
It seemed as though the defender would not continue his professional career at Stamford Bridge, as negotiations for a contract extension halted. Interest came in from the Spanish capital, with Real Madrid reportedly setting their sights on the full-back (via 90min).
However, it was not to be for Los Blancos as Chelsea revealed that Acheampong had renewed his contract at the Bridge. He has broken into the first-team, making three appearances under head coach Enzo Maresca this season.