Chelsea are in talks over a deal to sign Valentin Barco from sister club Strasbourg as Liam Rosenior's first signing, GIVEMESPORT sources understand.
The Blues have had a mixed campaign so far this season, but qualified for the FA Cup semi-finals earlier on Saturday evening with a thumping 7-0 win over League One side Port Vale, snapping a four-game losing skid across all competitions.
Chelsea are still pushing to qualify for next season's Champions League tournament, and currently find themselves one point behind Liverpool in the Premier League table in sixth place, but they are already moving ahead with plans to strengthen their squad in the upcoming transfer window for the new manager.
Sources: Chelsea Accelerate Talks for Barco
Adam Wharton and Valentin Barco battling against each other in the Europa Conference League
Barco, who has been described as 'phenomenal', has been one of the standout performers for Ligue 1 side Strasbourg this season, having flourished under Rosenior prior to his move to Stamford Bridge.
The Argentine joined Strasbourg from Brighton in a deal worth around £8m in February 2025, having struggled to make an impact at left-back for the Seagulls following his arrival from Boca Juniors. But since joining Strasbourg, Chelsea have been delighted by the 21-year-old's development, and it's understood that broad terms have been agreed with the player already.
The club's interest in Barco stretches back to before Rosenior was appointed as the club's manager, replacing Enzo Maresca, back in January. The Blues board values the player's composure and versatility, with his ability to play in central midfield, left-back or left-wing seen as valuable to the squad.
GIVEMESPORT understands that Chelsea are still working on a potential deal with Strasbourg, and while nothing is agreed or closed yet, talks are heading in that direction for the summer.
Barco Heading to the World Cup
Valentin Barco
Chelsea had been discussing a move for Barco as early as 2025, but GIVEMESPORT understands that there was internal debate over whether to pursue a deal for this summer or for summer 2027.
However, the player's rapid rise has led to talks accelerating since the January transfer window, and he now looks like he could become Rosenior's first signing.
Barco's rise to prominence has also resulted in him becoming part of the Argentina senior squad during the recent international break. Having made his debut back in 2024, Barco was called up for the March fixtures against Mauritania and Zambia, with the youngster netting his first goal for his nation during the 5-0 win over the latter, putting him in contention to be part of the squad for the World Cup.
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