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Chelsea are reportedly eyeing Barcelona star Marc Bernal, he could be considered a replacement after Enzo Fernandez departed. The 19-year-old midfielder has fallen down the ranks at Barcelona and could become a target for the Blues in the winter transfer window, as per latest transfer news.
Chelsea keep tabs on Marc Bernal
As reported by GIVEMESPORT, Chelsea are watching Bernal in Barcelona. The teenager came from the ranks of the club’s renowned youth academy called La Masia and has already earned one senior appearance for Spain. Bernal started the first two La Liga games of the season but has since lost his place in the team. There is competition in the Barcelona midfield after they signed Rodri, this has pushed Bernal towards a backup role.
That could open the door for Chelsea try and sign him in January. Xabi Alonso is believed to be interested in the Barca midfielder. Chelsea have also made major changes to their midfield this summer. Fernandez left Stamford Bridge for Manchester City in a £125 million deal, giving the club significant funds to spend on replacements. The Blues could now look at Bernal as a player who can develop into a long-term option.
Man United also watching Bernal
Chelsea are not the only club interested in the young midfielder. Manchester United also monitor Bernal’s situation and could enter the race if his lack of game time continues. Chelsea may currently have an advantage, though. Their interest is already developing, and Alonso could see Bernal as a good fit for his plans.
The injury to Moises Caicedo has also seen an increase in the need for midfield options. Jordan Henderson is nearing full fitness but Bernal might offer an alternative for the future. There’s been a few questions around Alonso’s midfield selection. In the Blues’s 2-1 loss to Arsenal, Reece James and Malo Gusto were used in midfield.
Bernal could provide a more natural option in the position if Chelsea decide to move for him. However, Chelsea are unlikely to see the teenager as an instant replacement for Fernandez. The club would want to give him time to adapt to Premier League football if he eventually moves to England.
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Marc Bernal’s Barcelona stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB–
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Duels Won %
La Liga 22 2 1 55.3%
Copa Del Rey 4 2 0 55.9%
Champions League 6 1 0 38.1%
Bernal’s future at Barcelona uncertain
Bernal was an important player for Barcelona last season as they won the La Liga for the 29th time. His performances also earned him a place in Spain’s temporary squad for the World Cup**.** He later made his senior international debut in a friendly game against Iraq before the tournament. However, his situation has changed since the start of the new season.
Despite starting the opening 3 matches, Bernal has now found himself on the bench, with Rodri taking his place. The change could become important if Bernal continues to struggle for minutes. At 19, regular playing time will be important for his development, and Chelsea could see an opportunity if Barcelona cannot offer him that.
Chelsea have also changed their transfer approach. The club have recently looked to add players who have shown more experience and are ready for the demands of the Premier League instead of signing only inexperienced youngsters. Bernal could still fit into that strategy because of his experience at Barcelona and international level.
For now, Chelsea are only monitoring the situation. But if Bernal remains out of Barcelona’s starting XI, the Blues could push ahead with their interest in January, while Manchester United and other European clubs continue to watch closely.