Chelsea sold Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City on Deadline Day in the recently concluded summer transfer window but were unsuccessful in their attempt of replacing him as a deal for AS Monaco star Lamine Camara collapsed.
Xabi Alonso is likely to want a new midfielder in January considering how important Enzo Fernandez was in the Blues’ setup, and also keeping in mind Romeo Lavia’s underwhelming fitness record over the last few months.
According to Caught Offside, Atletico Madrid star Pablo Barrios is the latest addition on Chelsea’s radar as they hope to replace Fernandez. He is valued at £47 million on Transfermarkt and was an important part of Diego Simeone’s plans last year.
Despite Barrios being crucial for Atletico lately, it remains to be seen how his role evolves over the next few months in the Spanish capital after Morten Hjulmand’s transfer, and Chelsea will be alert to any opportunity to sign him.
Brilliant signing for Chelsea
Pablo Barrios would be a great addition to the Chelsea squad and as far as replacing Enzo Fernandez is concerned, the 23-year-old may have more similar attributes compared to the Argentine international as opposed to Lamine Camara.
Owing to his strong lower body, the Spanish international is able to make well-timed tackles and interceptions, wins duels successfully and can hold the ball effectively in midfield under the opposition’s pressure.
When in possession, Barrios is able to effectively progress the ball into the final third. His short-passing and reading of the game to attack empty space higher up the pitch will be key features in making him an important part of Xabi Alonso’s plans.
It will be interesting to see how his playing time at Atletico Madrid materialises following Morten Hjulmand’s signing, and whether Los Rojiblancos are prepared to entertain interest from Chelsea in Barrios midway through the season in January.
