Chelsea’s reported interest in Marc Bernal has suffered a setback with Barcelona moving to secure the midfielder on an improved long-term contract.
The Blues have been linked with the 19-year-old as Xabi Alonso continues assessing options following Enzo Fernandez’s £125million move to Manchester City.
Earlier reports had even placed Chelsea ahead of Manchester United in the race for Bernal.
However, Barcelona now appear determined to remove any uncertainty surrounding his future.
Mundo Deportivo reports that sporting director Deco has announced Bernal is expected to extend his deal until 2031.
Chelsea face fresh Bernal obstacle
Bernal is already contracted to Barcelona until 2029.
Barcelona officially confirmed that deal last September after the midfielder returned from a serious knee injury.
A further extension would therefore represent a major show of faith rather than Barcelona simply protecting an expiring asset.
That complicates matters for Chelsea.
The Blues allowed Fernandez to leave for Manchester City without securing a direct midfield replacement.
Our report on Fernandez’s £125m transfer detailed the scale of the hole created by his departure.
Chelsea then saw a late deal for Lamine Camara collapse despite reaching a £47m agreement.
Bernal remains a player to monitor
Bernal fits Chelsea’s recruitment profile.
He is young, technically gifted and can operate as a holding midfielder, with Barcelona describing him as a player with strong tactical awareness and defensive ability.
The original transfer reports suggested Chelsea viewed him as a possible long-term midfield addition.
A new 2031 contract would make any January move significantly harder and potentially more expensive.
Chelsea’s interest is therefore worth monitoring.
For now, though, Barcelona appear to be moving first.
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