Chelsea are looking to hijack Barcelona’s attempts to sign Arthur as they seek to find a long-term replacement for Cesc Fàbregas.
According to the Daily Mirror, Chelsea are after Gremio’s Arthur. Barcelona have been heavily linked with him and the player was even pictured in their shirt with sporting director Robert Fernandez.
The Brazilian club weren’t happy with the pictures and are now only willing to accept his £44 million release clause, which has caused the Catalans to have reservations. This has allowed Chelsea the opportunity to sneak in because they seem to have less issues with the amount of money needed.
Arthur is one of the hottest talents in South America currently. He has just finished his breakthrough season with Gremio in which he helped them win the Copa Libertadores, the premier regional club competition in South America. His passing numbers are ridiculous considering he is only 21-years-old, and he was vital for the Brazilian side because of his ability to control games as well as create chances.
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Chelsea are wanting to rejuvenate their ageing squad with talented young players. They have a world-class academy, but are looking to external sources to strengthen their squad. Although, some academy players such as Andreas Christensen have managed to work their way into the first-team. The success of these may have convinced Antonio Conte that he can trust younger players to follow his detailed tactical instructions.
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Arthur would be a long-term replacement for Fàbregas in the centre of midfield. His ability to dictate games and create from deep positions is reminiscent of the Spaniard. It would fill a key role in the team because they don’t currently have anyone else of that ilk. Fabregas needs his gametime managed and can’t deal with the rigours of a full season.
Who is he likely to join?
Both teams clearly have a space in their first-team for Arthur, so he wouldn’t struggle for gametime at either club. The fact that he has a release clause means that it’s down to the player over his preference as well as potential wages.
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His willingness to pose in a Barcelona shirt speaks volumes and makes them the clear favourites. It just remains to be seen whether Barca are willing to meet his release clause, but he would meet a key need in the team because they never properly replaced Xavi. Arthur’s clear talent and young age make this move unlikely to fall apart like Jean Seri’s in the summer.