Chelsea receive a blow in pursuit of £52m Italian midfield star

Transfer News: Chelsea receive blow in Nicolo Barella pursuit

According to transfer news from The Sun, Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their efforts to sign Nicolo Barella. Inter Milan have refused to sell the talented Italian international, who is valued at £52m.

Barella has been one of the most consistent players for Inter this season. He has played in all but one of their league games this campaign as Inter sit atop the Serie A table.

He was loaned out to Cagliari in the summer of 2019 but has become a regular fixture in Antonio Conte’s side since his return to Milan last summer.

Barella has featured in all of their cup games as well. He played in their solitary Copa Italia game and featured in their 6 Champions League group stage games. The central midfielder has impressive numbers this season as well. Barella already has 3 goals and 10 assists this season for Inter.

Those numbers managed to attract the attention of teams like Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea. Even Liverpool and Tottenham were credited with an interest in the player earlier.

However, all these sides have been dealt a blow with Inter ready to offer Barella a new contract. His current deal expires in 2024.

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It does mean that Chelsea might have to start looking at other midfield targets, with Barella close to signing a new contract. However, the Blues could yet hold out to see if he does sign it and pounce in case things go differently.