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Report: Chelsea have upper hand in race for'impossible'Barcelona target

Barcelona seem unwilling to get involved in a transfer battle with Chelsea for one of their targets this summer.

It could be a busy summer for the Blues, who are expected to sign a central defender and midfielder when the transfer window opens. Adam Wharton is being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, so he is one name that could come in to strengthen Chelsea’s engine room.

As well as midfield and defence, the club could also improve their attack ahead of the 2026/27 season.

SCENARIO: Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Yan Diomande but must sell one of their current wingers first…

Who are you sacrificing? 👋

Chelsea’s list of wingers:

Pedro Neto

Estevao Willian

Alejandro Garnacho

Jamie Gittens

Geovany Quenda (joining in summer of 2026)

Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig gestures during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and VfL Wolfsburg

Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images

Chelsea willing to pay £52m for Yan Diomande while Barcelona baulk at fee

In February, it was reported that Chelsea have been scouting RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande. The winger appears to be on Barcelona’s radar as well, but the Catalan club are at a disadvantage in the race for his signature.

According to Sport, Chelsea are willing to pay in excess of €60m (£52m) for Diomande, while the player is not an option for Barcelona at that price.

The outlet states that while Barcelona have been following Diomande just as Chelsea have, he is viewed as an “impossible” dream.

Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig ) controls the ball

Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images

In contrast to Chelsea, then, finances will clearly be a problem for Barcelona, making a switch to the Bridge way more likely than one to the Camp Nou.

Despite having only joined Chelsea last summer, Alejandro Garnacho could be forced to leave the Blues if Diomande joins. The Argentina international is already being linked with an exit.

Yan Diomande’s attacking numbers this season

Diomande has been one of the best players in the Bundesliga in the current campaign and has posted some very good stats.

In 27 appearances, the 19-year-old has scored 10 goals and provided six assists. According to WhoScored, he is also making 1.6 key passes and 3.3 dribbles per game.

Yan Diomande could replace Alejandro Garnacho at Chelsea

He's been on fire this season 🔥

Yan Diomande's stats

Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images

There is no guarantee that his form will translate over to the Premier League. In recent years, that has rarely happened with Bundesliga imports.

However, Diomande is clearly a very talented wide man who fits the profile that Chelsea’s recruitment staff look for. Ultimately, it is not a move you would rule out.

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