March 6, 2021, PAMPLONA, NAVARRA, SPAIN: Ilaix Moriba of FC Barcelona, Barca celebrates a goal during the spanish league, LaLiga, football match played between CA Osasuna v FC Barcelona at El Sadar Stadium on march 6, 2021 in Pamplona, Navarra, Spain. PAMPLONA SPAIN - ZUMAa181 20210306_zaa_a181_264 Copyright: xEduardoxSanzx
According to transfer news from Spanish publication MARCA (h/t Express), Chelsea have received a boost in pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Ilaix Moriba as the Catalans grow frustrated with contract talks with the teenager.
A product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia youth academy, Ilaix Moriba made his first-team debut for the club last season. Over time, the 18-year-old managed to gain the trust of manager Ronald Koeman and finished the 2020/21 season with a tally of one goal and three assists from 18 matches.
While it seemed like Moriba would be set for a bigger role in the new season, the 18-year-old’s future at Barcelona has been thrown up in the air owing to his contract situation. The midfield prodigy is in the final year of his contract with the Blaugrana but an agreement has not been forthcoming.
The Catalans are unwilling to meet the demands being made by Moriba’s camp and, as per the aforementioned report, have tabled their final contract offer, which they hope is accepted. In case it is not, the La Liga giants would have no option but to cash in on the teenager as they grow tired and fed up of going round in circles in negotiations.
Mundo Deportivo (h/t Express) report that Chelsea are intent on making a push to sign Moriba this summer, along with Manchester City. And the latest development with regard to his contract situation is certain to come as a boost for the Blues as they could land the teenage prodigy for a bargain price if the status quo remains.
Moriba can be a top addition for Chelsea with an eye on the future. In a short time with the Barcelona first-team, the 18-year-old demonstrated great potential and could be a big bargain if the Blues are able to land him this summer.
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