Chelsea blow in the race for this 25-year-old German star as Benfica are keen on keeping the player

Transfer News: Chelsea receive blow in Julian Weigl pursuit

According to transfer news from Daily Star, Chelsea have received a blow in the pursuit of Julian Weigl. Benfica manager Jorge Jesus wants to keep the German as well as Rafa Silva on the side and has asked the board for the same.

Once regarded as one of the finest midfield talents in the world, Weigl fell off the radar at Dortmund for a while. The Germany international is an exceptional passer of the football and is very comfortable in possession, whilst excelling in breaking up opposition’s play. He has plenty of energy and always looks to pass forward.

Over the last season or so, Weigl has made sure that he hasn’t faded off into oblivion. He signed for Portuguese side Benfica and was one of their best players throughout the season, appearing in 43 games for them.

After being linked to Chelsea earlier, it now appears that the Blues will face some issues in signing him. Benfica manager Jorge Jesus has asked the club’s board to keep Weigl and Rafa Silva for next season. Weigl does have a release clause of £100million but Chelsea are only willing to pay £30million.

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The 25-year-old German has shown that he still has the talent that he once showed at Dortmund. Prising away Weigl might also be difficult given that he just joined the club a year back. Nonetheless, this might be one to keep an eye on to see how it boils.