Chelsea Enquire About Signing $117 Million Star Linked With Barcelona Transfer

Chelsea are currently in sixth spot in the 2025-26 Premier League table with 34 points from 22 outings, two points behind fourth-placed Liverpool. And, they are allegedly set to bolster their squad by signing a Barcelona target in the near future.

Chelsea Eyeing Move for Barcelona Target

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Chelsea have set their sights on Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, who has long been linked with Barcelona. They have enquired about the ex-Manchester City striker’s valuation, with the player keen to join a Premier League club.

The Blues, who signed striking duo Joao Pedro and Liam Delap last summer, are believed to be unimpressed with their number nine options now. As a result, they could launch a move worth around $117 million to add the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner to their ranks.

Meanwhile, Barcelona is continuing to keep tabs on Alvarez as Blaugrana sporting director Deco is keen on a striker who can both score goals and link up play. They would pursue the Atletico Madrid ace as their top target once they reduce their player wages.

Alvarez, 25, relished an excellent two-year stint at Manchester City, winning the prestigious treble, before joining Atletico Madrid in a potential $111 million deal in 2024. He has netted 40 goals and provided 13 assists in 84 overall matches for his current club so far.

During his trophy-laden spell at Pep Guardiola’s team, the Chelsea target made 67 Premier League appearances. He contributed 20 goals and 11 assists in the league for City.

On the other hand, Chelsea have reportedly agreed personal terms with Stade Rennais star Jeremy Jacquet. However, the Ligue 1 side’s asking price of around $75 million is said to be proving a major hurdle in the ongoing transfer negotiations.

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And, Rennes head coach Habib Beye is hoping to keep hold of his centre-back this month.

“I believe that today he is a very important player for our objectives. If tomorrow, we were to let him go, we would have to lower our expectations. When you have offers from such a club, it can make things a little hesitant. I’m very firm on this situation. He is an essential player for us,” Beye said when asked for an update on Jacquet’s future.

Jacquet, a right-footed towering French defender, has emerged as a vital starter for Beye’s club this season. The 20-year-old has started in all 17 of his appearances across competitions for Rennes in the ongoing campaign, helping keep five clean sheets so far.