Mauricio Pochettino could look to sign either Raphinha or Ferran Torres from Barcelona but he may face a major Manchester City problem
Barcelona duo Raphinha and Ferran Torres are the latest names to be linked with a transfer to Chelsea this summer. The Blues are in the market for a versatile attacker to join before September 1 after Mauricio Pochettino saw Mohammed Kudus join West Ham and Michael Olise sign a new contract at Crystal Palace.
Despite losing out on that duo, Chelsea remain in the market with a plethora of options seemingly at their disposal. Lyon duo Rayan Cherki and Bradley Barcola have both held talks with Chelsea, however a deal for the latter is not currently active.
As for Cherki, the admiration from west London remains but again talks are not currently ongoing. The stance on both could change, however, in the coming days if moves for other targets do not materialise. On that list appears to be Emile Smith Rowe. with a move for the 23-year being considered by Chelsea as per the Mail.
It is also noted that Torres and Raphinha are both on the radar of the Blues with Barcelona’s continued financial difficulties making it difficult to guarantee the long-term future of any member of Xavi’s squad. Ansu Fati looks more primed for an exit than either Raphinha or Torres, however the emergence of a new winger could change things.
This past Saturday Barcelona beat Villareal in a seven-goal thriller to maintain their unbeaten start to the new La Liga season. Neither Raphinha or Torres were named in the starting XI with the latter suspended after picking up a red card in the 2-0 win against Cadiz the game prior.
Starting out wide instead was 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who significantly impressed with an assist also attributed to his name. Torres did come off the bench and score in the comeback victory, but Xavi’s bold decision may be a sign of things to come for Raphinha, Torres and Fati.
When Manchester City sold Torres to Barcelona for just under £55million in late 2021, a first refusal clause was included in the contract which allows Pep Guardiola’s side to match any potential bids that may come in for the Spain international.
Raphinha also has long-standing interest from the Premier League but not just at Chelsea, despite only signing for Barcelona in the summer of 2022 from Leeds in a £55million package deal. Arsenal have also made enquiries regarding the Brazil international as Mikel Arteta seeks to add some more depth to his front line.
