Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing the 26-year-old Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella in a part-exchange deal.
According to Calciomercatoweb, Chelsea are interested in signing Nicolo Barella. The Blues are keen on having the 26-year-old in their ranks. And, they are ready to propose a part-exchange deal to sign him.
Meanwhile, Barella is among the best midfielders in the Italian top flight and is a highly sought-after player. His contract at San Siro runs until the summer of 2026. However, he could be on the move in the upcoming transfer window, given the amount of interest and Inter Milan’s ongoing financial situation.
They have been struggling with their finances for a while and might receive a significant financial setback if they fail to finish in a Champions League spot. Inter Milan are currently 5th in the Italian top flight with 51 points in their 30 outings.
They are two points behind fourth-placed AC Milan and are desperate to end the season inside the top four spots. If they fail, Inter might have to let go of some of their star players. And, Barella is one of the players who might be on his way out. His exit will help them balance their books.
Barella joined Inter Milan back in the summer of 2019 from Cagliari. He initially joined them on a year-long loan before it was made permanent in the following summer. The Italian international has been the mainstay in the centre of the park for Milan since joining them.
As far as the ongoing season is concerned, the 26-year-old has featured in 40 matches and has been involved in 15 goals. He has found the back of the net on seven occasions and has eight assists to his name. The Nerazzurri are still fighting for a Champions League spot.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to sign their Italian international. The Blues are keen on having the 26-year-old in their ranks. Despite signing numerous players over the last two windows, results on the pitch have not been that great for the Blues. And, they are now looking to add Barella into the mix to help turn things around.
Chelsea are willing to offer Mason Mount plus cash in return for the Italian international. Mount’s contract at the London club runs until the summer of 2024. With just over a year left in his contract, the club have been trying to extend the 24-year-old’s contract. But they haven’t tasted success yet.
Also Read: Todd Boehly and his plans for Chelsea lack a clear blueprint
While they are still trying to find a middle ground, they are open to the idea of letting the 24-year-old leave in order to land Barella. The Blues are also ready to add cash to the deal. The England international is a quality player whose arrival could surely bolster Inter Milan’s squad. But, they are believed to prefer a cash-only deal. As a result, it will be interesting to see where Barella ends up playing his football next season.