Chelsea join Barcelona in January tussle for Gremio prodigy

Some of the world’s biggest clubs have their eye on Gremio midfielder Arthur right now. But while he appeared to be bound for Barcelona, Chelsea have now thrown their hat into the ring.

The 21-year-old had recently been pictured in a Blaugrana shirt, infuriating his current club.

But with Antonio Conte having reportedly identified Arthur as his main target, he could be donning the blue of Chelsea once the January transfer window opens.

The midfielder made his debut just 12 months ago, but has already established himself as one of Gremio’s star men.

He played 12 times en route to the club’s 2017 Copa Libertadores title – their first since 1995. That’s in addition to 27 league outings.

Along the way, the Goiania native has drawn comparisons to the likes of Andres Iniesta and Xavi. However, it’s his potential as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas which is believed to have piqued Chelsea’s interest.

With the Blues reportedly lining up a £44m bid for the player, and Barca not short of cash after their summer sale of Neymar, this could well turn into a bidding war.

For the current Chelsea crop, the focus is on Saturday’s visit to West Ham United. The Blues are 1/2 for victory.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing