Chelsea have reportedly entered the race for Sevilla superstar Vitolo, despite the player being very close to a switch to Atletico Madrid.
Spanish publication Cadena COPE are claiming that there could be some late drama in the transfer battle for Vitolo. The Sevilla superstar seemed to be set for a switch to Atletico Madrid, who will in turn loan the player out to Las Palmas. However, Chelsea have entered the race in an attempt to hijack the deal.
Vitolo has come to prominence in Spain and in world football, after a low-money move from UD Las Palmas to Sevilla in the summer of 2013. The player has become a vital cog in Sevilla’s first-team setup, despite the continuous change in managers.
Chelsea have launched a bid to seal the transfer of Sevilla star Vitolo
[ Cadena Cope]— Chelsea (@ouggi) July 11, 2017
Last season was a particular highlight for the player – Vitolo made 30 appearances in the league alone with 6 goals and 7 assists – as he became more prominent in the Spanish National Setup under new manager Julen Lopetegui Argote.
And while Vitolo has been contracted to Sevilla till 2022, there have been exit rumours surrounding the 27-year-old, with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and several others keeping a keen eye on the player. According to widespread reports, Los Rojiblancos had reached an agreement with Vitolo.
Sevilla, on the other hand, were left hapless as Atletico seek to activate his release clause. The club even found a way to bypass their transfer ban, which would entail that Vitolo would be loaned out to Las Palmas for the first half of the campaign and will be unveiled as a signing by Diego Simeone & co. in the January transfer window.
However, Sevilla are furious about Atletico’s move and could take action if the club does go forward with this complex deal. On the other hand, Chelsea could play spoilsport. The Blues have also submitted an offer and Vitolo is considering both offers.
Unexpected. According to Spanish media, Vitolo is travelling to London to become a Chelsea player. Awaiting update.. pic.twitter.com/SwjzVyhQKt https://t.co/qPhes2rcaL
— A-down (@AdownA1) July 12, 2017
Chelsea also need depth in the wing department going into the next season. Pedro and Willian are the only recognised options alongside Eden Hazard and Conte is eyeing a move for Vitolo to beef up their attack.
Widespread reports have claimed that Vitolo is inching closer to a move to Atletico Madrid. However, the player could opt for Chelsea instead, which would not infuriate his current employers and ensure he is able to play at the highest level for the first half of the season as well.
With the World Cup around the corner, Vitolo cannot afford to not play at the highest level for the entire first half of the campaign – a chip that may see the weights tilt in Chelsea’s favour.
