Chelsea join Barcelona in pursuit of €70 million Premier League midfielder – report

Barcelona’s interest in Everton midfielder Amadou Onana was documented by us a few days ago. Back then, it was affirmed that sporting director Deco had identified the Belgium international as someone who could solve Barcelona’s midfield issues and for that, contacts were already established.

As a follow-up to that story, Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo has now reported that fellow Premier League side Chelsea have shown excessive interest in the 22-year-old, but Everton will not do any business if the offer is less than €70 million.

Onana slipping away from Barcelona?

Acquiring Onana poses a formidable challenge for Barcelona due to Everton’s high expectations and if reports are to be believed, negotiations have already commenced between the powerful midfielder and Chelsea.

Furthermore, it is to be noted that despite Chelsea’s active involvement in previous transfer periods, they remain eager for additional signings to improve their current situation.

Amadou Onana might be slipping away from Barcelona. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Reports suggest that Everton is firm on their stance, demanding no less than €70 million for Onana, who is contracted with them until 2027.

This hefty price tag poses a considerable obstacle for Barcelona in their pursuit of the midfielder, particularly given the delicate economic situation at the club.

Consequently, any club aspiring to secure Onana’s services in the upcoming summer will need to make a substantial financial commitment, something that Barcelona cannot offer.

So what next?

Everton’s extravagant demand might be out of reach for Barcelona but the team from Catalonia do have a few options in their sights, namely Dion Lopy.

As reported before, the Almeria midfielder was close to signing for Barcelona in January, but the Blaugrana decided to buy some time.

Right now, Barcelona want to wait until the end of the season to see how Lopy progresses and if he is, in fact, worthy of donning the royal blue of Blaugrana. If they see him deserving enough, an official offer will be made in the summer.