Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech has now offered himself to Barcelona as the replacement for Memphis Depay. The Morocco star is also a transfer target of Newcastle United in January.
That is according to Sport, which reports Ziyech wants to fill Depay’s void at Barcelona now the Dutchman has joined Atletico Madrid. Los Colchoneros have finalised a swoop with the Blaugrana for the 28-year-old at €3m (£2.5m). The fee may rise by €1m (£875k) in add-ons.
Ziyech hopes Barcelona boss Xavi now looks fondly on his place at Stamford Bridge to sign a replacement for Depay. The 29-year-old has played just 334 minutes across nine Premier League appearances this season. He has also played 218 over seven under Graham Potter.
Potter’s lack of trust in Ziyech has left the forward seeking a transfer away from Chelsea in January. He also very much appreciates what a move to Barcelona could offer having long admired the Catalan club. A move also nearly materialised before he left Ajax for the Blues.
Barcelona also explored a loan transfer for Ziyech last January before hiring Adama Traore from Wolves. Now, though, moves for Mykhaylo Mudryk and Joao Felix at Stamford Bridge have pushed Ziyech further out of contention. So, Chelsea are ready to lose the Moroccan.
Newcastle have held talks with Ziyech’s agent over a transfer from Chelsea
Ziyech has a wealth of suitors keen should Chelsea allow his transfer this January, including Newcastle. The Telegraph reports Toon boss Eddie Howe is exploring a deal for the £100k-a-week playmaker. 90min also claims talks between the Magpies and the forward’s agent.
A representative of the £33.5m Blues outcast approached Newcastle to discuss a transfer. The Toon also responded positively to the possibility of adding the 50-cap dynamo to their team this month. They would also appreciate Chelsea’s willingness to grant a loan transfer.
But Ziyech, seemingly, has his eyes on a move to Barcelona over any transfer from Chelsea to Newcastle in January. So, Howe may need Xavi to oppose the Morocco maestro’s arrival in Catalunya if the Magpies are to get a winger Walid Regragui calls ‘incredible’ this month.
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