Judging by the recent transfer rumours, it sure does look like Chelsea are looking to strengthen their midfield. It is very possible that the Blues have given up on Romeo Lavia, who has failed to remain fit for any consistent length of time since arriving at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2023. He is a phenomenal talent without doubt, but at some point, the club will have to move on.
They have been linked with Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace recently. But he is wanted by other Premier League clubs as well on the back of his brilliant performances for Crystal Palace. Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest is another midfielder who seems to be on the Blues' radar right now.
But it is not just Premier League-proven midfielders that they are keeping an eye out for. It looks like one of Atletico Madrid's standout performers has managed to grab their attention as well, but it will take a major transfer fee to sign him.
As reported by Fichajes, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have inquired about Pablo Barrios. People at the Metropolitano have decided that he won't leave for less than 100 million euros
Chelsea looking to sign €100m Atletico Madrid midfielder
That is a similar figure to what it would take to sign Wharton or Anderson. Or at least the numbers that have been doing the rounds of the media.
Barrios is an integral part of this Atletico Madrid team. At the same time, he is a full Spanish international as well. One could argue that he is proven at a higher level than both Wharton and Anderson, even though he might not have played in the Premier League.
So, Atletico Madrid's valuation makes sense based on the modern transfer market. It is unclear whether Chelsea would be open to making a move of that magnitude though.