Transfer gossip: Barcelona said to be rivalling Chelsea for Raphinha

Some of the transfer speculation involving Chelsea in Friday’s newspapers…

Barcelona are reportedly ready to at least match Chelsea’s offer in the battle to sign Leeds United star Raphinha.

Chelsea want the Brazilian and have indicated that they are willing to pay around £55m in order to take him to Stamford Bridge.

Barca and Arsenal have also been linked with Raphinha – and The Times say the Catalan giants are ready to pay up to £60m.


And Spanish publication Sport claim Raphinha wants to join Barca and has told his agent – ex-Blues player Deco – to snub Chelsea.

Juve ‘want £102m for De Ligt’

Juventus want £102m for Matthijs de Ligt, according to the Daily Telegraph.

The Netherlands international has a release clause for that amount and Juve are said to be insisting that it is met.

Chelsea have been in talks with the Turin club about a potential deal to sign De Ligt this summer.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail say Juve are interested in signing Blues striker Timo Werner as part of a deal.

Ake speculation continues

Former Chelsea defender Nathan Ake continues to be linked with a return to the Bridge from Manchester City.

The Blues will bring in defenders this summer, with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen having left.

Ake has therefore been touted for a move back to west London, but The Sun suggest City want at least £50m for him.

The Manchester Evening News believe City will not let him go unless they bring in a replacement.