If recent reports are anything to go by, then it does look like Chelsea are looking to add to their midfield. In the summer, they tried to bring in Xavi Simons and Fermin Lopez but failed. On the other hand, they have been constantly linked with Morgan Rogers as well, as he is struggling to replicate his form from last season for Aston Villa. And now, a very different profile of midfielder appears to have emerged on their radar, although it would take a huge transfer fee to sign him as well.
It is someone who is more of a midfield controller. But at the same time, he is mobile and athletic, with the ability to take care of the defensive side of the game as well. One has to wonder what that suggests for the future of Enzo Fernandez, who has faced quite a bit of criticism for his performances this season.
The player in question is Pablo Barrios. The 22-year-old Atletico Madrid starter appears to be a target for Chelsea. In fact, if reports coming out of Spain are accurate then an offer is being prepared.
As reported by Fichajes, Chelsea are reportedly preparing a bid of around €70 million for Barrios this coming transfer window. Bayern Munich are interested in him as well.
Chelsea reportedly preparing €70m bid for Atletico Madrid player
Barrios is what you would call a 'complete midfielder'. Someone like him could be a decent addition to this Chelsea team, especially if they are looking to move on from Fernandez as a starter.
The Argentine World Cup winner's stats have improved significantly under the management of Enzo Maresca, as he has developed the habit of making well-timed runs into the box. But when it comes to his overall effectiveness on a game of football, that certainly does not seem to be at an all-time high at the moment. In fact, Fernandez is rarely the best player on the pitch these days, something that he seemed capable of in his early days at Stamford Bridge.
Anyway, let's see if Chelsea do end up making a move for Barrios or not. He is not the only midfielder they have been linked with and the budget seems to be tight at Stamford Bridge these days.