Barcelona wonderkid Pablo Gavi has dropped a hint regarding his immediate future as he enters the final year of his contract at the the Spotify Camp Nou.
Chelsea have been linked with a move for the talented 17-year-old who continues to negotiate a renewal of his current deal with Xavi Hernandez's side. Barcelona have prioritised signing the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde despite the club's ongoing financial struggles.
The Blues were beaten to the signings of both Raphinha and Kounde despite agreeing fees with their respective clubs, with both players opted for moves to the Catalan giants. Chelsea could get revenge by pursuing a deal for Gavi by activating the 17-year-old's £86million release clause, but the youngster has dealt a blow to the Blues by dropping a hint over his future during Barca's pre-season tour.
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Gavi's Barcelona future remains in doubt with talks over a contract renewal having failed to find an agreement so far, but the Spain international has hinted that his future remains with the La Liga outfit. Speaking after Barcelona's 1-0 win over Real Madrid, Gavi said: “I am very happy to be on this tour with the team.
"I am the first to be excited about this team. I’m looking forward to a nice, happy season.”
Chelsea have been linked with a move for Gavi's teammate Frenkie de Jong, but the Dutch midfielder has continuously refused to entertain offers from elsewhere and wants to stay at Barca. Whilst the Blues could activate Gavi's release clause and open direct talks with the player's camp, it looks as though they could face a similar situation as with De Jong, with the 17-year-old seemingly very happy to stay at Barcelona this summer despite entering the final 12 months of his contract.
N'Golo Kante, Jorginho and Ruben Loftus-Cheek all face uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge this summer and Thomas Tuchel is understood to want to strengthen the midfield area of his squad. Gavi would be an expensive option for the Blues should the club pursue a deal for the Spanish wonderkid, but due to his age, ability and potential, Gavi could control Chelsea's midfield for years to come if the club can convince him to leave the Spotify Camp Nou.
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