Chelsea target Ousmane Dembele tells Xavi he wants to stay in Spain
Chelsea target Ousmane Dembele has told Xavi that he would like to stay at Barcelona this summer as his current contract expires in a few days, according to Cadena SER (h/t Metro). The 25-year-old’s current deal expires at the end of June and the Frenchman has told his current manager that he’d like to extend his stay at the Camp Nou.
The forward’s representatives have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea as they believe Barcelona’s current contract offer is low. But the Frenchman prefers to stay with the Blaugrana as he’s happy and settled at the club.
The Catalan giants are unwilling to make an improved offer to the player, which has given the likes of Chelsea a shot at signing the World Cup winner. Dembele will be making a big sacrifice in terms of money if he decides to stay, but it’s a one he’s supposedly willing to make.
Thomas Tuchel wants Dembele
It seems Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is looking to reunite with Dembele. The former Borussia Dortmund star played under Tuchel for a season in Germany before his big-money move to Barcelona.
While at Camp Nou, the French winger has been marred by injuries. He’s missed 102 games for the Catalan giants as fans have grown frustrated with the 25-year-old’s lack of impact at the club. Dembele has had moments of magic but the lack of consistency has proven problematic.
The Frenchman showed glimpses of what he can offer last season as he’s been one of the best players for Barcelona, assisting 13 goals. Being adept with both his feet, he’s able to play on either wing, and it’s this versatility that should tempt the west London club to pursue the 25-year-old’s signature.
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With the likes of Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech failing to make an impact at the club, Dembele is a player that could add not just pace, but the quality in the attacking third to create chances for fellow teammates. The Frenchman’s dribbling ability can also give any defensive line a run for their money.
One of the best on his days, it’s Dembele’s injuries that make him a risky signing if the Blues do end up getting him for free.
