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Barcelona are reportedly prepared to battle with Serie A giants AC Milan in a bid to sign Chelsea outcast Carney Chukwuemeka in the January transfer window. The 20-year-old midfielder could have gone on loan to the San Siro in the summer transfer window, but the Blues refused the offer (via GOAL).
They are reportedly interested in selling the player on a permanent transfer, rather than determining his future after a loan deal. Ever since his move from Aston Villa to Chelsea in 2022, he has played just 28 games. This season, under new manager Enzo Maresca, he has had just one appearance, which came in the Carabao Cup.
This corroborates with reports that Carney Chukwuemeka is not expected to find any space or playing time at Stamford Bridge. Barcelona had contemplated a move for a midfielder in the summer, especially with the injury concerns in their midfield (via GOAL). However, they did not make a move for the 20-year-old.
According to new reports from journalist Ekrem Konur, the Blaugrana could turn to the midfielder this January. Sporting director Deco is reportedly considering a move to sign him in the coming months, as Barca continue to struggle with injury concerns.
Gavi has been out injured for a year due to a cruciate ligament tear. Marc Bernal will spend the coming year recuperating after suffering a similar injury. Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo have both endured muscle injuries that have kept them out for nearly a month.
A move for another midfielder in January will certainly bolster Hansi Flick's squad. However, Barcelona will be wary about Milan's retained interest in Chukwuemeka. The Italian giants may look to submit another bid for the January transfer window, potentially getting the 20-year-old ahead of Barca.
Barcelona also interested in Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia
Carney Chukwuemeka isn't the only player who could leave Stamford Bridge for Camp Nou, with Barcelona also interested in his teammate Romeo Lavia. According to a report from Spanish outlet SPORT (via 90min), Deco has placed both 20-year-olds on his wishlist for the January market.
The two players are dealing with similar struggles around playing time. However, in Lavia's case, the Belgian international has played more games. He partook in Chelsea's first match of the season against Manchester City, but ended up getting injured.
The Blues have impressed in his absence, beating clubs like Wolverhampton Wanderers (6-2) and West Ham United (3-0) in the Premier League. It is uncertain that Lavia can break into Enzo Maresca's starting lineup, opening the door for Barcelona to potentially sign him from Chelsea.
