Chelsea duo attracting interest from Barcelona ahead of January transfer window

They haven't played much for Chelsea this season.

Oct 15, 2024 - 12:00

Chelsea duo attracting interest from Barcelona ahead of January transfer window

Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill of Chelsea during a training session at Chelsea Training Ground — Romeo Lavia is wanted by Barcelona sporting director Deco (Picture: Getty)

Two Chelsea midfielders are attracting interest from Barcelona sporting director Deco ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.

Having spent an exorbitant amount of money in the summer window, the Blues have made an impressive start to the Premier League season.

Under new boss Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have not lost in the league since the opening day of the season, with the Italian recently named manager of the month for September.

Despite the positive start, there have been some wrinkles for Maresca, most notably his large squad that has left several players without regular minutes so far this season.

That lack of opportunities for certain players has caught the attention of Barcelona, with Spanish outlet SPORT reporting that sporting director Deco has earmarked loan moves for Romeo Lavia and Carney Chukwuemeka in January.

Lavia, who has only recently returned from a hamstring injury, was wanted by Barcelona prior to his move to Stamford Bridge two summers ago.

Chukwuemeka, meanwhile, has played just 15 minutes of football all season – against Barrow in the Carabao Cup – and is yet to be included in a league matchday squad under Maresca.

Carney Chukwuemeka of Chelsea runs with the ball during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Barrow at Stamford Bridge — Carney Chukwuemeka is also attracting interest from Barcelona (Picture: Getty)

Barcelona, who sit top of La Liga after eight wins from their first nine games, are potentially in need of midfield reinforcement following injuries to Gavi, Fermin Lopez and summer signing Dani Olmo.

However, the report also indicates that head coach Hansi Flick is not necessarily convinced that the club needs more cover in midfield.

The German has been impressed by 21-year-old Marco Casado and also intends to give 17-year-old Marc Bernal an opportunity when he returns from injury.

The club also has Frenkie de Jong available again for selection after the Dutchman returned from his lengthy injury.

A move for either player is likely to be a loan deal.

Chelsea are expected to look to move some players on in January, with Ben Chilwell one player expected to leave the club.

The Englishman is yet to start a game this season but is attracting interest from Serie A side Napoli.

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