Chelsea have had an approach worth €80 million for Barcelona's FIFA World Cup star Pau Cubarsi knocked back by the Spanish giants, as per reports. The Blues are in the process of making additions to the squad ahead of new manager Xabi Alonso's first season after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign.
According to Catalan news outlet El Nacional, Chelsea bid €80 million to secure the services of Cubarsi, who is deemed to be a priority target by Alonso. Barcelona rejected the approach, making it clear that they do not intend to sell the teenage sensation at any cost.
Pau Cubarsi has been an ever-present player for Spain at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, playing every minute of their group stage campaign. The 19-year-old is coming off the back of an impressive season at club level, as well, having featured 48 times across all competitions as Barcelona won LaLiga for a second successive season.
Chelsea are in the market for a right-sided centre-back and have been linked with both Maxence Lacroix and Jacobo Ramon as possible signings. Manager Alonso is said to have been particularly impressed by how Cubarsi has handled himself at the FIFA World Cup and is keen on the Barcelona youngster, in particular.
Pau Cubarsi came through the famed La Masia academy before making his debut for the club in 2024 aged 16. He remains contracted to the club until 2029, having signed a long-term deal with a €500 million release clause in early 2025.
Chelsea star likely to return to club after FIFA World Cup: Reports
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is likely to continue with the club at the end of the FIFA World Cup this summer, as per reports. The Argentina international has been strongly linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge after a disappointing campaign with the club.
The Athletic reports that Real Madrid are not prioritizing a move for the Argentina international this summer, and could end up not signing him at all. He had been spoken about as a target for the Spanish giants, who already paid over €60 million to sign Marc Cucurella from Chelsea.
The Blues value the Argentina midfielder at around £120 million and will be unwilling to do business for lower, having themselves signed him for £105 million. He has played in two games at the World Cup this summer, and will return for Argentina's Round of 32 meeting with Cape Verde.