Chelsea’s distant hopes of signing Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto have been dealt a final blow, with Mundo Deportivo revealing the Spaniard will sign a new contract in the “next fifteen days.”
The 25 year old currently has a release clause of €40m (£35.6m), which the Blues were reportedly close to triggering last summer with the Spaniard seriously considering leaving the Camp Nou.
However, Roberto was persuaded to stay at Barca, and has been given regular starts by manager Ernesto Valverde at right back.
Chelsea were likely interested in the utility player to strengthen the centre of their midfield following the exit of Nemanja Matic to Manchester United.
Then technical director Michael Emenalo reportedly also asked Barca about Roberto in 2016, but a move never materialised. Considering the abject recent performances of Tiemoue Bakayoko, there will certainly be many now regretting the missed opportunity.
Mundo Deportivo report that the Spanish international will sign a four and a half year deal at Barcelona, with a €500m release clause.
