Chelsea in pole position to sign 18-year-old Barcelona target

Chelsea are set to give Barcelona a run for their money in pursuit of a certain Borussia Dortmund’s 18-year-old forward Youssoufa Moukoko, reports SPORT.

Barcelona were thought to be in a strong position to acquire Moukoko as a free agent in the summer. But Chelsea’s acquisition of Christopher Vivell as their new technical director has turned things around.

As per SPORT, Vivell dominates the German market, having previously worked with RB Leipzig, and the man in charge now wants to ruin Barcelona’s transfer plan by going all-out for Moukoko.

It must be noted that Moukoko’s current deal with Dortmund only runs until the end of the season and if reports are to be believed, the renewal is seeming impossible mostly because of the economic conditions the player’s representatives have put forward.

Dortmund are willing to offer €5 million gross plus variables. However, those representing the youngster want a bonus of more than €10 million. These are figures that the Bundesliga giants are unwilling to meet in any way.

Given the difference in valuation is extremely big, the two parties are expected to meet for one last time in order to find a middle ground. 

Interestingly enough, even if the player put pen to a new deal, his new contract could have an exit clause for some specific clubs courtesy of which the 18-year-old can leave for a relatively affordable amount.

For now, the report states that Chelsea seem to be in pole position due to the presence of Vivell.

At the same time, it must be noted that considering the number of players Barcelona already have in their attacking roster, Moukoko might have second thoughts about the move due to the amount of playing time he might receive.

All this means if Barcelona are really serious about the youngster, they will have a lot of convincing to do.